Oyo Chief Imam Praises Rescue of Abducted Schoolchildren, Teachers
Commends President Tinubu, Oyo Government and security agencies for successful operation
By Sadiq Abdulfatah
The Grand Chief Imam of Oyo Land, Sheikh Al-Imam (Barrister) Bilal Husayn Akinola Akeugberu, has expressed joy over the release of the schoolchildren and teachers abducted in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State after spending 56 days in captivity.
This was contained in a statement signed by the Chief Imam, in which he gave thanks to Almighty Allah for the successful rescue of the victims and described their safe return as a source of relief for their families, the people of Oyo State and the nation.
The Islamic leader said the rescue reflected Allah’s mercy and answered the prayers offered by millions of Nigerians throughout the victims’ captivity.
“Alhamdulillahi Rabbil-‘Alamin. Our prayers have been answered. Our supplications have been accepted. Our pains have been relieved. Our sorrows have been turned into joy. Our children and their teachers have returned home safely,” he said.
Sheikh Akeugberu also expressed appreciation to the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abdul Hakeem Abimbola Owoade Elewuetu I, for his fatherly support, leadership and concern throughout the period.
He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his commitment to the rescue effort, noting that the directives issued by the President contributed to the successful operation. He also welcomed the President’s assurance that those behind the abduction would face justice and that the victims would receive medical and humanitarian support.
The statement also commended Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde for working closely with the Federal Government and security agencies to secure the victims’ release.
The Chief Imam further praised the Nigerian Armed Forces, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Police Force and other intelligence and security agencies for their professionalism, resilience and sacrifice during the operation.
He noted that the security personnel carried out sustained operations that led to the successful rescue of the victims without collateral damage, describing their commitment to protecting lives and preserving peace as commendable.
The statement also appreciated Islamic scholars, traditional rulers, community leaders, civil society organisations, media organisations and Nigerians who supported the affected families through prayers, advocacy and moral support during the difficult period.
While welcoming the victims’ return, the Chief Imam expressed condolences to the family of the late Mr. Oyedokun, who lost his life during the incident. He prayed that Almighty Allah would grant the family the strength to bear the loss and that justice would be served.
The Islamic leader called on governments at all levels to strengthen security around schools and communities to prevent similar incidents, stressing that the safety of children should remain a national priority.
He concluded by praying for Allah’s continued blessings upon the Alaafin of Oyo, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Seyi Makinde and members of the security agencies. He also prayed for lasting peace, unity, justice and prosperity in Nigeria, asking Almighty Allah to continue protecting the nation’s children, schools, communities and the country as a whole.
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