The President and Set Man of Word Communication Ministries (WOCOM), Apostle Sunday Popoola, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the successful rescue of the pupils and teachers abducted in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State after spending nearly two months in captivity.
Popoola also praised the military and other security agencies involved in the operation, describing the rescue as a demonstration of what could be achieved through decisive leadership, adequate coordination and the commitment of security personnel.
The cleric spoke during Sunday’s worship service at the headquarters of WOCOM in Onireke, Ibadan.
According to him, political leaders deserve commendation whenever they demonstrate commitment to the protection of lives and property, just as they should be criticised when they fall short of public expectations.
“I commend President Tinubu for the proactive leadership that culminated in the rescue of the kidnapped pupils and their teachers from Oriire Local Government after weeks in captivity without casualties among the victims,” he said.
Popoola also applauded the gallantry and professionalism of the armed forces and other security operatives who participated in the rescue mission.
He, however, urged the Federal Government to sustain increased investment in the military and other security agencies, stressing that improved funding, modern equipment and strong political support were essential to ending kidnapping, banditry and terrorism across the country.
“Nigeria has one of the finest militaries in the world. What is required is continuous investment, proper equipment and the political will to support them. The success recorded in the Oriire rescue operation shows what is possible when these elements come together,” he said.
The cleric expressed condolences to the families of security personnel who reportedly lost their lives during the rescue operation, describing them as heroes who paid the ultimate sacrifice in defence of the nation.
He called on the Federal Government and well-meaning Nigerians to ensure that the families of the fallen personnel receive adequate compensation and sustained support.
“The children and spouses of those who paid the supreme price in the service of the nation should not be abandoned. They deserve prompt compensation and long-term welfare support,” he said.
Popoola also advocated comprehensive rehabilitation and psychosocial support for the rescued pupils and teachers, noting that the traumatic experience they endured during their captivity could have lasting emotional and psychological effects.
He urged the government to facilitate their reintegration into normal life through appropriate counselling and support programmes.
The cleric further called for the speedy prosecution of those arrested in connection with the abduction, as well as their collaborators, insisting that justice must be served to deter future acts of kidnapping and other violent crimes.
