CSO Coalition Hails Rescue of Oriire Abductees, Criticises Makinde Over Call for UN Probe

 

A coalition of civil society and public interest organisations under the umbrella of the Democracy and Good Governance Watch Initiative (DGGWI) has commended the successful rescue of the abducted Oriire students and teachers, describing the operation as a major achievement by Nigeria's security agencies.

In a statement issued on Tuesday and jointly signed by its conveners, Nelson Ekujumi, Popoola Ajayi, Gbenga Soloki and Shola Justice, the coalition praised President Bola Tinubu, the National Security Adviser, service chiefs, security personnel, Amotekun Corps, local vigilantes and other stakeholders for their roles in securing the victims' release after weeks of intelligence-led operations.

The group expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for what it described as his leadership and commitment to ensuring the safe return of the abductees.

"We are elated and give glory to God Almighty for granting our gallant security agencies victory over the forces of darkness through the successful rescue of the Oriire abductees," the statement read.

The coalition also appreciated Nigerians for their prayers and support throughout the rescue efforts, urging citizens to continue believing in the country's democratic institutions and security architecture.

According to the group, the successful operation demonstrated that national unity and collective commitment could overcome security challenges.

The DGGWI, however, criticised Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde over his reported call for a United Nations probe into the circumstances surrounding the abduction and subsequent rescue of the victims.

The coalition described the governor's position as "irresponsible, provocative and an assault on Nigeria's sovereignty," arguing that such a call was unnecessary following the successful rescue operation.

It further questioned why Governor Makinde, as the state's chief security officer, had not initiated a state-level inquiry into the security breach if he considered such an investigation necessary.

The group alleged that the governor's comments raised questions about his motives and urged security agencies to investigate what it described as possible issues surrounding his remarks.

The coalition also called on security agencies to place Governor Makinde under what it termed a "security watch" ahead of the 2027 general elections, claiming that his comments could have implications for national security.

Despite its criticism of the governor, the coalition reiterated its support for Nigeria's security agencies and urged Nigerians to continue supporting efforts aimed at tackling insecurity across the country.

The statement concluded with a call for unity, patriotism and sustained collaboration between citizens and security agencies in addressing the nation's security challenges.