Group praises Tinubu, security forces over rescue operation, urges investigation into Oyo governor’s comments…..
A coalition of civil society and public interest organisations under the umbrella of the Democracy and Good Governance Watch Initiative (DGGWI) has applauded the successful rescue of the abducted students and teachers from Oriire, describing the operation as a major victory for Nigeria’s security agencies after weeks of intelligence-led efforts.
In a statement jointly signed by the coalition’s conveners, Nelson Ekujumi, Popoola Ajayi, Gbenga Soloki and Shola Justice, the group expressed gratitude to God for what it described as the triumph of the country’s security forces over criminal elements responsible for the abduction.
The coalition commended President Bola Tinubu for providing what it called decisive leadership and fulfilling his assurance that the abducted victims would be rescued safely.
According to the group, President Tinubu, the National Security Adviser, the Service Chiefs, members of the Armed Forces, the Amotekun Corps, local vigilantes and every individual who participated in the rescue operation deserve commendation for bringing what it described as weeks of trauma, pain and uncertainty to an end.
The organisation also appreciated Nigerians who offered prayers and support throughout the rescue efforts, urging citizens to continue believing in the country and supporting democratic institutions.
The statement said Nigerians should remain united and committed to the nation’s progress, adding that no society working together for a common purpose can be defeated by criminal elements.
The coalition further urged Nigerians to continue supporting the current administration while remaining vigilant against what it described as individuals seeking to destabilise the country under the guise of promoting good governance and public interest.
However, the group criticised Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde over his reported call for a United Nations probe into the circumstances surrounding the Oriire abduction and subsequent rescue of the victims.
The coalition described the governor’s position as irresponsible, provocative and an affront to Nigeria’s sovereignty.
According to the statement signed by Nelson Ekujumi, Popoola Ajayi, Gbenga Soloki and Shola Justice, Governor Makinde’s comments undermine the sacrifices made by security personnel and local vigilantes, some of whom lost their lives during the rescue operation.
The group alleged that the governor’s remarks showed a lack of sensitivity to the victims, their families and those who participated in securing their freedom.
The coalition also questioned why Governor Makinde, as the Chief Security Officer of Oyo State and chairman of the state’s Security Council, had not initiated a state-level investigation into the security breach if he considered such a probe necessary.
It argued that the governor possesses the constitutional authority and receives security allocations to address security concerns within the state, making his call for a United Nations investigation difficult to justify after the victims had already been rescued.
The organisation further claimed there were reasons to scrutinise the governor’s actions and statements, alleging that his comments had raised questions about his handling of the incident.
Consequently, the coalition called on Nigeria’s security agencies to investigate Governor Makinde and his administration in connection with the Oriire abduction.
The group also urged security agencies to place the Oyo State governor on a security watchlist ahead of the 2027 general elections, arguing that his comments could have implications for national security.
The statement was jointly signed by the conveners of the Democracy and Good Governance Watch Initiative, Nelson Ekujumi, Popoola Ajayi, Gbenga Soloki and Shola Justice.
