OYO ANCOPSS Hails Tinubu, Makinde, Security Agencies Over Rescue Efforts in Orire Abduction

 

The All Nigeria Confederation of Principals of Secondary Schools (ANCOPSS), Oyo State Branch, has received with profound joy, immense relief, and heartfelt gratitude the news of the safe release and return of the teachers and students who were abducted during the unfortunate incident in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State several weeks ago.

The painful period of their captivity was one that tested our faith, challenged our emotions, and united us in fervent prayers. Throughout those difficult days, we remained hopeful that they would return safely to their families, schools, and communities. Today, our hope has been rewarded, and our joy knows no bounds.

In a statement jointly signed by the State President of ANCOPSS,  Mr. Abdullahi Fasasi, and the General Secretary, Mr. Omololu Dele Fleming, and made available to the media on Saturday, the Association reads:  On behalf of all principals of secondary schools in Oyo State, ANCOPSS expresses its heartfelt appreciation to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, *His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR,* for the unwavering commitment of the Federal Government to safeguarding the lives of Nigerians and for the efforts that culminated in the successful release of the victims.

"We also convey our profound gratitude to the Executive Governor of Oyo State, *His Excellency, Engr. Seyi Makinde,* whose administration demonstrated genuine concern, decisive leadership, and consistent commitment throughout this challenging period. His reassuring disposition and determination gave hope to the families, the education community, and indeed the entire state.

"Our sincere appreciation equally goes to the security agencies whose professionalism, courage, intelligence, and sacrifice contributed immensely to this successful outcome. We acknowledge that their relentless efforts, often carried out under difficult circumstances, made this joyful reunion possible.

ANCOPSS also extends heartfelt gratitude to the *Commissioner for Education, Hon. Olusegun Olayiwola, National ANCOPSS, TESCOM, Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT),* Religious Organisations, Traditional Rulers, Community Leaders, Civil Society Organisations, the Media, and every well-meaning individual and Stakeholders who stood by us in prayers, advocacy, encouragement, and various forms of support throughout this trying period. Your solidarity reminded us that when a Community stands together, hope prevails even in the darkest moments.

To our dear Colleague, Teachers,Students, and Pupils who have now regained their freedom, we say: *welcome home.* We thank God for preserving your lives and granting you the strength to endure this traumatic experience. We pray that the Almighty grants you complete healing- physically, emotionally, and psychologically - and restores peace to your hearts and those of your families.

While we celebrate this joyful development, ANCOPSS reiterates the urgent need for sustained efforts toward strengthening security in and around our schools. Schools must remain safe havens for teaching and learning, not theatres of fear and uncertainty. We therefore call on all levels of government, security agencies, communities, and relevant stakeholders to intensify measures aimed at preventing any recurrence of such unfortunate incidents.

As a confederation, we remain committed to working collaboratively with the government and all relevant partners in promoting safe, secure, and conducive learning environments for every child and education worker across Oyo State.

Once again, we rejoice with the families of the released victims, the entire education sector, and all lovers of peace. Indeed, this is a victory for humanity, compassion, perseverance, and the power of collective prayer.

IBADAN BORN LEGAL LUMINARY ELDER BARRISTER OLUDARE ADEWALE HAILS TINUBU OVER SAFE RELEASE OF ABDUCTED ORIIRE TEACHERS AND SCHOOL PUPILS IN OYO STATE

An Ibadan born Legal maestro Elder Barrister Oludare Adewale has hailed President Bola Ahmed TINUBU and security Agencies over the safe rescue of abducted 39 pupils and seven teachers in three schools of Oriire Local Government of Oyo State on Friday 10th July 2026 after 54 days in the hostage of kidnappers .

In his swift reactions to the joyful development , Barrister Adewale expressed his delight and commended the APC led Federal Government  for the coordinated efforts and provision of logistics leading to the safe rescue of the abducted victims .

Barrister Adewale eulogised the professional acumen of the security agencies in combating the the heinous activities of the kidnappers  across the country including that of Oriire National forest parks where captured victims were hidden by the terrorist s

The Legal Expert  called on OYO State Government  to provide tight security for vulnerable public schools across the state to prevent re occurrence of the ugly incident.

He equally called on joint security agencies not to relax until the bandits  hideouts and dens are completely wiped out  in the forests.

Barrister Oludare Adewale congratulated the families of the rescued victims in Ogbomoso areas  and commiserated with the families  of the Security personnel who paid supreme sacrifice in the course of securing the abducted oriire pupils  and teachers .

While praising Oyo State Government  for its own contribution towards the rescue operations of the victims , he called for logistics supports for the victims for proper health care  and  supports.

Barrister Adewale thanked the religious organisations particularly CAC Agbala Itura for persistent prayers and fastings leading to the release of the captured victims  by kidnappers.

He expressed the joy that God answers prayers .

It would be recalled that the kidnappers stroke on Friday 15th May , 2026 capturing 39  pupils from three different schools from Yawota and Ahoro Esiele in Oriire Local Government areas of Oyo State .

The  joint Security Agencies had since swung into action  leading to the rescue of the victims safely.

Ayorinde Congratulates Makinde, Security Agencies Over Rescue of Abducted Orire School Children, Teachers

 

The Chairman of the Oyo State Advisory Council, Chief Bolaji Ayorinde, SAN, OFR, has congratulated Governor Seyi Makinde on the successful rescue of the abducted teachers and school children from Ahoro Esiele in Orire Local Government Area of the state.

In a statement issued and signed in Ibadan, Chief Ayorinde also commended the military, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies for their courage, professionalism and unwavering commitment in securing the release of the victims.

He said  "the successful operation reflects the determination of Governor Makinde's administration and the security agencies to protect the lives and property of residents across Oyo State" .

He Continued "We extend our heartfelt congratulations on the immeasurable success of Your Excellency and our security agencies, particularly the military, the Department of State Services (DSS) and the police, who demonstrated remarkable bravery and unwavering commitment in the recent rescue of the abducted children and teachers in Orire Local Government Area," 

Chief Ayorinde noted that the abduction of innocent pupils and teachers had once again brought to the fore the growing security challenges confronting educational institutions across the country, recalling that the incident evoked memories of the infamous Chibok schoolgirls' abduction.

He however described the successful rescue as a significant victory for the security agencies and a moment of immense relief for the families of the victims and the people of Oyo State.

The statement read further. "The successful rescue of these children is not just a significant achievement for our security agencies but also a moment of relief and joy for their families and all citizens and residents of Oyo State,  It reinforces our belief that the spirit of resilience and courage can prevail even in the darkest of times". 

The senior advocate added that the success of the rescue operation sends a strong message that Nigeria possesses the capacity to overcome its security challenges through collaboration, determination and effective leadership.

He said the operation also inspires confidence that the future of the nation's children can be safeguarded in an environment where education thrives without fear and communities work together to confront insecurity.

Chief Ayorinde further advocated institutional reforms that would strengthen collaboration among security agencies, enabling them to respond more effectively and proactively to criminal activities.

He admonished Governor Makinde to encourage greater community participation in security through neighbourhood watch initiatives and stronger support for local authorities, stressing that collective responsibility remains vital in tackling insecurity across the state.

Ends .....

Oyo Confirms Release of Abducted Oriire Pupils, Teachers

 

The Oyo State Government has announced the release of the pupils and teachers abducted from Oriire Local Government Area, describing their freedom as a victory for resilience and principled leadership.

In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, said that the government expressed gratitude that the victims had regained their freedom after weeks in captivity.

According to the statement, "We are happy to report to our people in Oyo State that our children and teachers at Oriire have been released from captivity."

Prince Oyelade said the successful release marked a significant test of its resolve against criminal elements, stressing that it remained committed to resisting the payment of ransom despite pressure to adopt what it described as a "quick-fix" approach.

Prince Oyelade stated that by refusing to throw money at bandits to secure a temporary solution, Governor Seyi Makinde's administration had demonstrated courage and a long-term commitment to tackling kidnapping and banditry. 

He noted that yielding to ransom demands would only encourage criminals and strengthen their operations.

The commissioner added that the administration's approach reflected its determination to confront insecurity through pragmatic and sustainable measures rather than actions that could embolden criminal gangs seeking to destabilise the country.

He reaffirmed the government's commitment to protecting the lives and property of residents while continuing to work with security agencies to rid Oyo State of kidnapping and other criminal activities.

Bimbo Adekanmbi: The Best Choice to Sustain Oyo's Progress

 

As the race towards the 2027 governorship election in Oyo State gathers momentum, political conversations are becoming increasingly centred on one fundamental question: who possesses the competence, experience and vision to preserve the remarkable progress recorded in the last eight years while taking the state to even greater heights?

Leadership succession has always been a defining moment in every democracy. It presents an opportunity not only to elect a new governor but also to determine whether the gains of the past will be consolidated or abandoned. For Oyo State, the decision before the electorate is particularly significant.

History offers an interesting perspective. As the administration of the late former Governor, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, approached its end in 2019, he publicly expressed his desire for Oyo State to continue on the path of development after his tenure. Although Engineer Seyi Makinde was neither his preferred candidate nor a member of his political party, Ajimobi reportedly acknowledged Makinde's competence and welcomed the fact that the state would be governed by someone he believed possessed the capacity to perform.

Today, Governor Makinde himself is approaching the end of his constitutionally permitted tenure after overseeing one of the most ambitious periods of infrastructure renewal, economic expansion, educational investment and investment promotion in Oyo State's recent history. Roads have been constructed across the state, the economy has witnessed significant reforms, agriculture has received renewed attention, while the state's profile has grown internationally as a destination for business and investment.

Against this backdrop, Governor Makinde has thrown his weight behind Bimbo Adekanmbi as his preferred successor under the Alliance People's Mandate (APM), signalling his confidence in Adekanmbi's ability to consolidate the achievements of the current administration and provide purposeful leadership for the next phase of Oyo State's development.

For many observers who believe governance should be driven by competence rather than political calculations alone, Adekanmbi represents a strong option. His academic accomplishments, entrepreneurial background, administrative experience and leadership credentials have earned him recognition both within and outside government circles.

His tenure as Commissioner for Finance during the Ajimobi administration remains one of his strongest credentials. At a challenging period for many state governments, he was associated with financial reforms aimed at strengthening fiscal discipline, improving internally generated revenue and introducing innovative approaches to public finance management.

Beyond public office, Adekanmbi has built an impressive network within the private sector and the international business community. Supporters believe these relationships could help attract greater investments, create employment opportunities and further position Oyo State as a competitive economic destination.

His leadership style also distinguishes him. Widely described as calm, accessible, visionary and deeply committed to public service, Adekanmbi has consistently projected himself as a leader who prioritises dialogue, innovation and practical solutions to societal challenges.

Ultimately, elections should be determined by ideas, competence and the capacity to deliver results. As Oyo State prepares for another democratic transition, voters have the responsibility to evaluate those seeking to lead the state based on their records, vision and ability to build on existing achievements.

For those who believe continuity should be anchored on competence and performance, Governor Makinde's endorsement of Bimbo Adekanmbi under the Alliance People's Mandate has undoubtedly added a new dimension to the political conversation. Whether that endorsement ultimately translates into electoral victory will depend on the judgment of the people of Oyo State, whose votes will determine who steers the Pace Setter State into its next chapter of development.

Oyo Head of Service Charges Permanent Secretaries on Professionalism, Accountability, Effective Service Delivery

The Oyo State Head of Service, Dr. Adenike Fasina, mni, has charged Permanent Secretaries, Executive Secretaries and General Managers across Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to uphold professionalism, accountability and transparency in order to improve service delivery to the people of the state.

Dr. Fasina gave the charge during the maiden interactive session with Permanent Secretaries, Executive Secretaries and General Managers held at the House of Chiefs, Secretariat, Ibadan.

She reaffirmed the commitment of the Governor Seyi Makinde-led administration to building a public service that is professional, innovative, accountable and capable of meeting the expectations of government and the citizens of Oyo State.

She said the interactive session was designed to strengthen partnerships among the accounting officers, improve communication and foster a common understanding of their responsibilities towards achieving the developmental aspirations of the state.

She noted that the meeting would also provide an avenue for participants to identify operational challenges confronting their respective establishments and jointly develop practical solutions that would enhance efficiency, accountability and transparency in governance.

Dr. Fasina stressed that the present administration remains committed to building a responsive, professional and result-oriented public service capable of delivering quality services to the people.

She said. "As leaders of your various establishments, you are expected to demonstrate exemplary leadership, uphold the highest standards of integrity and ensure strict compliance with the Public Service Rules, Financial Regulations and other extant policies." 

The Head of Service further urged the accounting officers to promote fiscal discipline, ensure prudent management of public funds and effectively supervise officers under their care while encouraging the sharing of best practices to improve productivity across the public service.

"You must continue to promote fiscal discipline, prudent management of public funds and effective supervision of officers under your care, identify best practices and collectively chart a course towards a more efficient and productive public service.'

Dr. Fasina maintained that the success of government policies and programmes depends largely on the quality of leadership and administrative competence demonstrated by accounting officers across the Ministries, Departments and Agencies.

She therefore called on all heads of government establishments to remain committed to the values of integrity, efficiency and excellence in the discharge of their duties, noting that a vibrant public service remains critical to the sustainable development of Oyo State.

Abiodun Atilola 

Media Officer to the SSG/HOS 

July 10, 2026.

APC Chieftain Hails Tinubu's Role in State Police Legislation

 

An All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain, Obafemi George, has commended President Bola Tinubu for supporting the passage of the State Police Bill by the National Assembly, describing the establishment of state police as a major solution to Nigeria's persistent security challenges.

Speaking with journalists in Lagos, George praised the President for backing the legislation, noting that the creation of state police would empower governors to effectively direct security operations within their states.

According to him, although governors are widely regarded as the chief security officers of their states, they currently lack the constitutional authority to issue directives to commissioners of police because policing remains under the exclusive control of the Federal 

Government.

"

We refer to governors as chief security officers of their states, but that title is not expressly provided for in the Constitution," he said.

 "Section 215(4) of the Constitution states that a governor shall ensure public safety and public order in the state by giving lawful directions to the Commissioner of Police. 

However, the governor lacks operational control over the police, making it difficult to effectively discharge that responsibility."

He argued that the new state police structure would correct this imbalance by granting governors greater authority over policing within their jurisdictions.

"If someone is responsible for the security of a state but does not control the security apparatus, it becomes difficult to hold that person accountable for maintaining law and order," George added.

Addressing concerns that some governors could misuse state police for political purposes, George acknowledged that no governance system is without flaws but maintained that the benefits of decentralised policing far outweigh the risks.

"There is no perfect system anywhere in the world. The United States has operated state police since the 19th century, yet challenges still exist. That does not mean the system should be discarded. Rather, we should build safeguards that will ensure accountability while allowing the advantages of state policing to prevail," he said.

On the prospects of President Tinubu's re-election in 2027, George expressed confidence that the President stands a strong chance of securing another term, citing ongoing economic reforms and infrastructure development across the country.

He said the administration's reform agenda has earned recognition from international financial institutions and has positioned Nigeria on a path toward sustainable economic growth.

According to him, infrastructure development remains the backbone of every thriving economy, and President Tinubu is replicating at the national level the developmental model he pursued as governor of Lagos State.

"One of the major drivers of economic growth is infrastructure. 

The President has consistently emphasised this and is already implementing projects that will transform connectivity across the country," he said.

George cited the establishment of regional development commissions for the North-West, North-Central, South-West, South-South and South-East, as well as major road projects such as the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and the Sokoto-Badagry Super Highway, as examples of initiatives designed to integrate Nigeria's geopolitical zones and stimulate economic activity.

He explained that the road networks would improve the movement of goods and people, reduce travel time and strengthen trade among different regions of the country.

"The Sokoto-Badagry Super Highway will create a direct economic corridor linking the North-West to Lagos, while the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway will enhance connectivity between the South-West and South-South. Other approved highways, including the Akwanga-Borno road, will further connect the North-Central and North-East, promoting national integration and economic development," he said.

Drawing comparisons with global examples, George noted that the United States accelerated its economic expansion through its interstate highway system, while China embarked on decades of sustained infrastructure investment beginning in 1979, which helped lift hundreds of millions of people out of poverty.

"Infrastructure is what builds an economy. Countries that have achieved rapid development did so through long-term investment in roads, transportation and other critical infrastructure. Nigeria is now following that path," he added.