Former Bayelsa State Senator and media entrepreneur, Ben Murray-Bruce, has applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Nigeria’s security agencies for the successful rescue of pupils and teachers abducted in Oyo State, describing the operation as a significant achievement in the country’s fight against insecurity.

In a statement posted on his verified X account on Friday, Murray-Bruce said the successful rescue highlighted the effectiveness of coordinated security operations driven by strong leadership, intelligence gathering, and professional execution.

“The successful rescue of the abducted pupils and teachers in Oyo State is a remarkable achievement and a testament to what can be accomplished when leadership, intelligence, and professionalism come together,” he stated.

He commended President Tinubu for his continued commitment to protecting the lives of Nigerians and praised the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, for coordinating the nation’s security architecture. He also acknowledged the efforts of the Department of State Services (DSS) and other security personnel involved in the operation.

“I commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his steadfast commitment to the security of Nigerians and offer special praise to the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, whose coordination of our security architecture continues to deliver tangible results. I also salute the DSS and all the security personnel involved in this operation,” Murray-Bruce said.

According to him, the successful rescue operation deserves national recognition as it demonstrates the capacity of Nigeria’s security institutions to respond effectively to complex security challenges.

“Every child returned safely to their family is a victory for our nation. This is the kind of success that deserves recognition and encouragement,” he added.

Murray-Bruce’s remarks came after the Presidency confirmed that the abducted pupils and teachers had been rescued alive during a coordinated security operation. The victims had spent nearly two months in captivity following their abduction from schools in Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, disclosed that eight suspected kidnappers were arrested during the operation, while several others were killed. He further stated that security operatives carried out the rescue without yielding to the demands of the abductors.

According to Onanuga, the kidnappers had demanded the release of one of their detained leaders as a condition for freeing the victims. However, the government maintained its position against negotiating with criminal elements.

“In the course of the rescue operation, eight of the kidnappers were arrested and are now in DSS custody, while some were neutralised. There was no quid pro quo in the rescue operation, as the kingpin whose release was demanded by the kidnappers is currently being prosecuted for his crimes,” Onanuga explained.

Following their release, the rescued pupils and teachers expressed appreciation to President Tinubu and the security agencies for securing their freedom. In a video released by the Presidency, one of the victims thanked the President for his intervention and commitment to their safety.

The successful operation has been widely welcomed by Nigerians, with many describing it as a major boost to public confidence in the nation’s security agencies. President Tinubu and Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde also commended the operatives involved, praising their courage, professionalism, and dedication in bringing the victims home safely.