Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State has publicly commended President Bola Tinubu following the successful and safe release of all remaining students abducted from St. Mary's Catholic School in Papiri, Niger State.
A Complete Rescue and a Fulfilled Promise
In a statement released from Abeokuta, Governor Abiodun expressed profound delight at the news. This final release of 130 students comes after an initial group of 100 were freed earlier in December. With this development, the total number of rescued students now stands at 230, fulfilling President Tinubu's earlier pledge to secure their freedom without harm and reunite them with their families.
Abiodun, who also chairs the Southern Governors' Forum, described the successful operation as a clear sign that evil forces will not triumph over Nigeria. He emphasized that the outcome has significantly helped to restore public confidence in the government's ability to handle security challenges.
Catalog of Successes Against Kidnapping
The governor pointed to a growing list of successful rescues as evidence of the administration's capacity. He specifically mentioned the release of 24 individuals from Kebbi State, the first 100 students from the Papiri Catholic school, and Christian worshippers in Eruku, Kwara State.
According to Abiodun, these consecutive victories demonstrate that President Tinubu has the requisite determination to face Nigeria's security challenges head-on. He credited the President for the strategic security measures that made these rescues possible.
Christmas Reunion and a Call for Justice
The timing of the release is particularly poignant. Governor Abiodun noted it is heartwarming that the students and their parents can now celebrate the Yuletide together in a warm embrace, putting their terrible ordeal behind them.
Looking forward, the governor issued a strong call to action for the nation's security agencies. He urged them to ensure that the perpetrators of this kidnapping are fully investigated and prosecuted as allowed by law, to serve as a deterrent and bring full justice to the victims.
