The Okere of Sakiland, His Royal Majesty, Oba (Dr.) Surv. Khalid Oyeniyi Olabisi Oyedepo III, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, and the nation’s security agencies for the successful rescue of the pupils and teachers abducted in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
In a press statement issued by the Palace Media on Saturday, the revered monarch described the rescue operation as a significant victory against criminality and a demonstration of the effectiveness of coordinated security efforts in tackling kidnapping and other violent crimes. He noted that the development has brought immense relief to the victims’ families, the people of Oyo State, and Nigerians who had closely followed the incident with concern.
Oba Oyedepo specifically praised the Armed Forces of Nigeria, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Police Force, and other security and intelligence agencies for what he described as their exceptional professionalism, strategic coordination, and unwavering commitment throughout the operation. According to him, the successful rescue of the victims after several weeks in captivity reflects the growing impact of intelligence-driven operations and robust inter-agency collaboration in confronting security challenges across the country.
“The successful rescue of the abducted pupils and teachers is a welcome development that brings relief to their families and all well-meaning Nigerians,” the monarch stated. “I commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Seyi Makinde, our gallant security agencies, and everyone whose dedication made this feat possible. The rescue of the victims, the arrest of eight suspected kidnappers, and the neutralisation of members of the criminal gang demonstrate the effectiveness of intelligence-led operations and strong inter-agency collaboration in the fight against insecurity.”
The traditional ruler also expressed deep sympathy for the rescued pupils, teachers, and their families over the traumatic experience they endured while in captivity. He prayed for their speedy physical recovery, emotional healing, and psychological restoration, expressing hope that they would soon overcome the painful experience and successfully reintegrate into their normal lives.
While celebrating the successful operation, the Okere of Sakiland urged the Federal and Oyo State Governments, alongside relevant security agencies, not to relent in the ongoing campaign against criminal elements. He called for intensified intelligence gathering, sustained security operations, and strengthened collaboration among security institutions to eliminate kidnapping, banditry, and other forms of violent crime threatening public safety.
Oba Oyedepo further reaffirmed his commitment, as the custodian of the traditions and culture of Sakiland, to working closely with government authorities and security agencies in promoting peace, protecting lives and property, and strengthening community-based security initiatives within his domain. He stressed that collective responsibility, public vigilance, and sustained cooperation between communities and security institutions remain essential to achieving lasting peace and sustainable development.
The statement, e-signed by the Palace Media and dated July 11, 2026, concluded with a renewed call for continued support for security agencies as they intensify efforts to ensure that Oyo State and Nigeria remain safe, peaceful, and conducive to social and economic development.
