The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Oyo State Chapter, has commended the Federal Government and the Oyo State Government for their coordinated efforts that led to the safe rescue of the pupils, teachers and other victims abducted in Oriire Local Government Area of the state.
The association described the successful rescue as a demonstration of effective collaboration between the two tiers of government and security agencies, noting that the operation restored hope to the affected families and the people of Oyo State.
In a statement issued by its Chairperson, Omolola Alamu, Oyo NAWOJ said it received the news of the victims’ release with immense relief and gratitude after what it described as agonising days of uncertainty for their families, the school community and residents of the state.
The association particularly praised the proactive response of security agencies, whose intelligence gathering and rescue operations ensured the victims returned home safely.
It also lauded the political will demonstrated by both the Federal Government and Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration in prioritising the safety of children and refusing to succumb to criminal elements.
NAWOJ also acknowledged the role played by community stakeholders, traditional rulers and civil society organisations, saying their collaboration was instrumental in securing the release of the abductees.
“As mothers, journalists and advocates for women and children, we understand the trauma such incidents inflict on victims and their families. We commend the government for treating the incident not merely as a security challenge but as a humanitarian crisis requiring urgency and compassion,” the statement read.
While celebrating the successful rescue, the association urged the government to strengthen security architecture around schools across Oyo State, particularly in rural and border local government areas such as Oriire, to prevent future occurrences.
It also appealed to the authorities to provide psychosocial support for the released pupils, teachers and their families to aid their recovery from the traumatic experience.
The association called for the prosecution of those responsible for the abduction, saying bringing the perpetrators to justice would serve as a deterrent and restore public confidence in the country’s security system.
According to NAWOJ, the safe return of the victims reaffirmed that decisive government action and collaboration among relevant stakeholders could save lives and restore hope.
The association reiterated its commitment to responsible journalism that promotes peace, child protection and national unity, while expressing appreciation to the Federal Government, the Oyo State Government, security agencies and all those who worked behind the scenes to secure the release of the abductees.
