Prominent philanthropist and distinguished son of Ogbomoso, Alhaji Monzur Ayoade Ejide, has expressed profound gratitude over the successful rescue of the pupils and teachers abducted from Ahoro-Esiele Community in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, describing their release as a moment of immense relief and renewed hope for their families and the entire state.
In a statement made available to journalists, Ejide thanked Almighty Allah for preserving the lives of the victims throughout their 56-day captivity, saying their safe return has brought joy, comfort, and renewed confidence to the affected families and communities.
He described the successful rescue as a significant achievement made possible through the coordinated efforts of the Federal Government, Oyo State Government, traditional institutions, security agencies, and other critical stakeholders committed to restoring peace and safeguarding lives.
Ejide commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for providing the leadership and support that facilitated the rescue operation. He also praised Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde for his steadfast commitment to security and his continuous collaboration with security agencies in addressing insecurity across the state.
The philanthropist equally lauded the Soun of Ogbomosoland, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, Orumogege III, the Olugbon of Orile-Igbon, Oba Francis Olusola Alao, the Onpetu of Ijeru, Oba Sunday Oladapo Oyediran, and other traditional rulers across Ogbomoso Zone for their unwavering support and contributions throughout the rescue efforts.
He further applauded the Nigerian Armed Forces, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), local intelligence operatives, Amotekun Corps, and other security personnel for their professionalism, resilience, and sacrifice, noting that the operation demonstrated the effectiveness of inter-agency collaboration in tackling insecurity.
While celebrating the safe return of the victims, Ejide stressed the need to strengthen security architecture around schools and vulnerable communities to prevent similar incidents in the future.
He called on governments at all levels, security agencies, traditional rulers, and community leaders to sustain investments in intelligence gathering, community policing, and other proactive security measures to ensure schools remain safe and conducive for learning.
“The safety of our children and teachers must remain a collective responsibility and a top priority. We must continue to support initiatives that strengthen security, prevent future occurrences, and guarantee a peaceful learning environment across Oyo State,” he said.
Ejide also prayed for the physical, emotional, and psychological recovery of the rescued pupils and teachers, expressing confidence that with adequate care and support, they would overcome the trauma of their experience and successfully reintegrate into their schools and communities.
He urged residents to remain vigilant and continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information to enhance efforts aimed at sustaining peace and combating criminal activities across Oyo State.
