Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has been commended for his unwavering commitment and strong resolve, which resulted in the safe rescue of the 44 abducted pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government.
The governor was lauded for his articulate and focused coordination of the local components of the rescue efforts through the Service Commanders, Amotekun Corps and others, which played a key part in the safe rescue.
This commendation was given by the Comity of Oyo Professionals on Saturday, in a statement signed by its coordinator, Mr Ben Atanda.
This was as the group lauded the Federal Government for seeing through the rescue, calling on it to speed up action on the creation of state police, which Governor Makinde championed during the cause of the ordeal.
According to the group, Governor Makinde demonstrated extraordinary courage in the face of the challenge despite it being a first-of-its kind by marshaling the local security components and reassuring members of the public throughout the ordeal.
The statement read in part: “We, the Comity of Oyo Professionals, rejoice with the families, friends and residents of Ahoro-Esinele and Yawota communities of Oriire Local Government on the safe release of the 44 teachers and schoolchildren abducted by bandits about 57 days ago.
“We commend the Oyo State Governor, Engr Oluseyi Makinde, for demonstrating uncommon leadership and courage throughout this impasse, despite criticisms and insults from some members of the public.
“His coordination of the local components of the security setup and cooperation with the Federal Government throughout the rescue operation cannot be overlooked as pointed out by the Presidency and the Army in separate statements.
“We equally commend the Army, Air Force, Police, Amotekun and Local Vigilantes, who all played key roles in the operation.
“We, however, would like to call on the Federal Government to step up action on the creation of State Police, which is one of the things Governor Makinde pushed for in the aftermath of these abductions, because local policing will help in curbing attacks like this.
“In all, we thank God for the safe release of the abductees.”
