Labour Party lawmaker hails rescue of Oyo pupils, says Nigeria gaining upper hand against terrorists

Hon. Philip Agbese, Labour Party chieftain and deputy spokesperson of the House of Representatives, has commended the rescue of abducted pupils and teachers in Oriire lcoal government area of Oyo state, saying it shows Nigeria is gaining the upper hand against terrorists and other criminal groups.

Agbese also praised President Bola Tinubu, the military and other security agencies for what he described as a successful intelligence-led operation.

Addressing journalists in Abuja on Sunday, Agbese congratulated Nigeria’s service chiefs, the police, the Department of State Services (DSS) and other security agencies for their outstanding display of professionalism and inter-agency coordination.

He said the operation reflected the growing effectiveness of the Tinubu administration’s security strategy and the determination of the armed forces to pursue criminal elements wherever they operate.

His words: “The rescue of every pupil and teacher abducted in Oriire is far more than the successful conclusion of a security operation. It is a powerful statement that Nigeria is rising above those who seek to define us by violence and fear.

“President Bola Tinubu, our security chiefs and the gallant men and women of our armed forces have restored our glory before the world by proving that no Nigerian life is expendable and that our nation has both the capacity and the resolve to confront criminality head-on.

“Only recently, troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA foiled coordinated terrorist attacks in Zamfara and Katsina States, neutralised the notorious terrorist commander, recovered assault rifles, ammunition and operational equipment, and, through coordinated air operations, intercepted and successfully engaged about 300 terrorists advancing on motorcycles before they could unleash mayhem on innocent communities,” he said.

“These are not isolated victories; they are clear evidence of a military that has seized the initiative and is relentlessly taking the battle to the enemies of our country.”

The Benue-born politician said recent operations had also led to the rescue of kidnapped victims, the dismantling of terrorist camps, the elimination of high-profile commanders and the recovery of weapons.

According to him, the consistency of the successes should reassure Nigerians that the country’s security institutions remain committed to protecting lives and restoring peace.

Agbese urged Nigerians to continue supporting the military and other security agencies by providing credible and timely intelligence to prevent attacks and facilitate ongoing operations.

He also appealed to communities across the country to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies to sustain the gains already recorded.

Agbese expressed confidence that sustained political support for the armed forces and continued collaboration among security agencies would lead to greater successes in the fight against terrorism, banditry and kidnapping while restoring lasting peace across the country.