The rescue of abducted pupils and teachers in Oyo State has renewed discussions on Nigeria’s security strategy, with President Bola Tinubu insisting that his administration will not pay ransom to criminal groups.
Tinubu stated this while receiving traditional rulers from Oyo State, led by the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, at the State House in Abuja.
The President said the government’s refusal to negotiate with the kidnappers of victims from Oriire Local Government Area was informed by its knowledge of the forest terrain and confidence in the ability of security forces to carry out rescue operations.
He applauded the armed forces for their role in securing the release of the abducted pupils and teachers, describing the operation as a demonstration of improved coordination among security agencies.
Tinubu said every security challenge presents an opportunity to reassess existing strategies, adding that the government is strengthening military structures and expanding operational capacity to tackle terrorism and banditry.
He disclosed that the Nigerian Army is increasing its divisions from eight to twelve as part of efforts to reduce response time and improve effectiveness in affected areas.
The President also reaffirmed plans to introduce state police, saying the initiative would address security gaps at the local level while ensuring safeguards against abuse. He urged traditional rulers to remain active partners in the fight against insecurity and support security agencies with useful information from their communities.
Tinubu further explained that forest guards are being empowered to play a greater role in combating criminal activities, especially in remote forest locations where armed groups operate. The comments followed the May 15 attack on three schools in Oriire LGA, where 39 pupils and seven teachers, including a school principal, were abducted.
While in captivity, one of the teachers, Michael Oyedokun, was killed by the abductors. The remaining victims were later released on July 10 after spending 56 days in captivity.
