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.
