The Executive Director of the Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC), Okechukwu Nwanguma, has welcomed the safe release of the teachers and pupils abducted from Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State, describing the development as a moment of relief for the victims, their families, and the wider community.
In a statement, Nwanguma expressed gratitude to all those who contributed to securing the victims’ freedom and congratulated the families and residents on the successful outcome.
He, however, noted that the incident underscores the persistent threat kidnapping poses to schools and communities across Nigeria, stressing that no child should be denied access to education because of insecurity.
According to him, the Federal Government and relevant security agencies must strengthen preventive security measures, enhance intelligence-led policing, and improve the protection of schools and other vulnerable institutions to prevent similar incidents.
Nwanguma also urged authorities to ensure that those responsible for the abduction, as well as similar crimes, are identified, arrested, prosecuted, and held accountable.
He maintained that lasting security can only be achieved through proactive measures rather than relying solely on successful rescue operations after attacks have occurred.
The RULAAC Executive Director welcomed the released teachers and pupils back home and wished them speedy healing, comfort, and full recovery from the trauma they experienced during their captivity.
He reiterated the organisation’s call for safer schools, secure communities, and stronger accountability in tackling kidnapping and other violent crimes across the country.
