Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi State has welcomed the safe return of eight students from the Confluence University of Science and Technology (CUSTECH) Osara, who were rescued by security operatives in a dense forest in Kwara state. The students, who underwent psychological evaluation and were confirmed fit to be reunited with their families, were received by the governor at the headquarters of the Nigerian Army in Abuja.
Governor Ododo expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his leadership in the fight against terrorism and violent crimes in Nigeria. He commended the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, the Nigerian Army, the Police, the Department of State Services, the Civil Defense, local vigilante services, and local hunters for the successful operation that led to the safe return of the students.
The governor called for collaborative efforts between state governments and security agencies to address insecurity in Nigeria. He praised Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State for his unwavering support and synergy in joint efforts to eliminate criminals from border communities between Kogi and Kwara states, which have become hideouts for criminals in recent months.
While expressing sympathy for the families of the two abducted students who lost their lives, Governor Ododo vowed to make Kogi State unsafe for criminals, emphasizing his commitment to ensuring the safety and security of the state’s residents.
The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taureed Lagbaja, represented by the Deputy Chief of Army Operations, Major General Emmanuel Emeka, highlighted the military’s intervention in the rescue operation as a demonstration of the Nigerian government’s commitment to protecting its citizens. He commended the collaborative efforts between the army and other security agencies that led to the successful rescue of the students, assuring that the operation would continue until the perpetrators were apprehended and brought to justice.
The safe return of the abducted students and the collaborative efforts of security agencies serve as a testament to the commitment of the government and security forces in safeguarding the lives and well-being of Nigerian citizens. Governor Ododo’s appreciation of the collaborative efforts and his promise to ensure the safety of Kogi State underscores the importance of unity and joint action in addressing security challenges.
The successful rescue operation and the government’s unwavering commitment to security reaffirm the collective determination to combat criminal activities and protect the nation’s citizens. The collaborative efforts between state governments and security agencies, as well as the commitment of leaders to prioritize security, are vital steps toward achieving lasting peace and security in the country.
