SDP commends rescue of abducted Oyo pupils, mourns slain Army officer

The Social Democratic Party (SDP) has commended the Nigerian security forces for the successful rescue of abducted schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State, describing the operation as a remarkable demonstration of professionalism, courage and effective inter-agency collaboration.

The party also mourned the death of a 28-year-old Army officer, Lt. Felix Isaac, who was killed during the rescue mission.

In a statement issued on Monday by its National Publicity Secretary, Rufus Aiyenigba, the SDP said the victims were rescued after spending more than 56 days in captivity.

The party described the intelligence-led joint military operation as a testament to the dedication and gallantry of the nation’s security forces.

Mr Aiyenigba said the successful rescue reflected “unity of purpose, impeccable professionalism and gallantry” among the personnel involved in the operation.

Abduction remains a national embarrassment

Despite celebrating the rescue, the SDP described the abduction of the schoolchildren and teachers as a national embarrassment.

The party said the incident highlighted the government’s constitutional responsibility to guarantee the security and welfare of all Nigerians.

According to Mr Aiyenigba, the successful operation demonstrated that many of the country’s challenges could be addressed through effective leadership and responsible governance.

“The success story of this rescue operation reinforces the consistent position of the SDP that everything wrong with us as a nation can be corrected with the right politics, right attitude and correct capacity deployment of our leaders and the administrators of our national affairs, in an atmosphere of absolute commitment to the true interest of the nation and the promotion of the public good,” he said.

Tribute to fallen Army officer

The SDP welcomed the safe return of the 44 rescued schoolchildren and teachers, while paying tribute to Lt. Felix Isaac, who lost his life during the operation.

The party described the late officer as a hero whose sacrifice helped restore hope to the affected families.

“The party salutes the courage and sacrifice of the fallen officer in restoring joy to the traumatised families and for giving up his life to make the Nigerian society better. His death and other heroes like him will forever be remembered,” the statement added.

The party urged the Federal Government to intensify efforts to combat poverty, hunger and social injustice, describing them as major drivers of insecurity across the country.

It also prayed for lasting peace and improved security, expressing hope that democratic governance would translate into better protection of lives and property.

Makinde thanks security agencies

The SDP’s commendation came shortly after Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde expressed appreciation to security agencies for the successful rescue operation.

During a visit to the rescued victims at the Headquarters of the 2 Division Nigerian Army Medical Services, Odogbo Barracks, Ibadan, the governor said the victims would remain under medical observation for 48 hours.

Mr Makinde also sympathised with the families of those who lost their lives during the abduction, including Michael Oyedokun, assuring them that their sacrifices would not be forgotten.

He added that arrangements were underway to reunite the rescued pupils and teachers with their families, revealing that one of the children repeatedly requested to see her mother after regaining freedom.