ACOE Hails Oyo Rescue, Seeks Same Tactics Against Kidnappers Nationwide

The Association of Corporate Online Editors (ACOE) has commended the Federal Government and security agencies for the successful rescue of 44 abducted pupils, students and teachers in Oyo State.

The association, however, urged the government to adopt the same intelligence-led strategy that secured their freedom to rescue other Nigerians still being held by kidnappers and terrorists across the country, particularly the students abducted from Government Day Secondary School, Lassa, in Borno State.

In a statement signed on Sunday by its Chairman, Sola Akingboye, ACOE described the operation as a major boost for the nation’s fight against kidnapping, saying it had demonstrated that coordinated intelligence, effective planning and sustained military pressure could produce positive results without the payment of ransom.

The association praised President Bola Tinubu, the Armed Forces, the Department of State Services (DSS), other security agencies and members of the local communities for their roles in securing the release of the victims after 56 days in captivity.

According to ACOE, the operation has restored hope to many Nigerians and should become the template for future rescue missions.

“The successful rescue of the abducted pupils, students and teachers in Oyo State has shown that with determination, professionalism and actionable intelligence, Nigeria can defeat kidnapping and restore hope to victims’ families,” Akingboye said.

He called on the Federal Government to sustain the momentum by extending the same level of commitment to other victims still in captivity, especially the students abducted from Government Day Secondary School, Lassa, and other Nigerians being held in different parts of the country.

“It is important that this success is not treated as an isolated achievement. Every Nigerian life is precious, and every family waiting for the return of a loved one deserves the same level of commitment that brought the Oyo victims home safely,” he added.

ACOE noted that reactions from many Nigerians following the rescue reflected a growing belief that the country possesses the capability to substantially reduce kidnapping and insecurity if intelligence-driven operations are consistently deployed.

The association stressed that security remains the primary responsibility of government, noting that national development cannot thrive where citizens live in fear.

“Our citizens should be able to travel, work, farm and go about their daily activities without fear. Our children must also be able to learn in a safe environment because no nation can make meaningful progress when education is constantly disrupted by insecurity,” Akingboye said.

The association also paid tribute to security personnel who lost their lives during the rescue operation, describing their sacrifices as a reminder of the enormous price often paid in the defence of the nation.

It particularly commiserated with the family of 28-year-old Nigerian Army officer, Lieutenant Felix Ademe Isaac, who died while leading the initial assault team during the operation to rescue the abducted pupils and teachers in the Old Oyo National Park.

“We honour the courage and sacrifice of Lieutenant Felix Ademe Isaac and every security operative who paid the ultimate price to secure the freedom of innocent Nigerians. Their patriotism and selflessness will never be forgotten,” the statement said.

ACOE urged the Federal Government to sustain investment in intelligence gathering, surveillance technology, inter-agency collaboration and community participation to strengthen the fight against kidnapping and terrorism.

The association recalled that barely two weeks ago it had appealed to the Federal Government and security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue the Oyo and Borno schoolchildren, describing Friday’s successful operation as evidence that determined and coordinated security efforts can deliver results.

It, however, maintained that the task would only be complete when all Nigerians still in the custody of kidnappers and terrorists are reunited with their families.

ACOE reaffirmed its commitment to supporting initiatives that promote national security, justice and accountability, pledging that the corporate online media would continue to advocate the protection of lives and a safer Nigeria for all.