A faith-based civil liberties organisation, the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC), has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, and Nigerian security agencies for the successful rescue of 46 kidnap victims in Oriire, near Ogbomosho.
The victims, comprising 39 children and seven teachers, were freed after spending 56 days in captivity.
In a statement issued on Sunday, July 12, 2026, MURIC’s Executive Director, Professor Ishaq Akintola, praised the courage, resilience, and strategic coordination displayed by the authorities and security operatives involved in the operation.
He noted that despite intense public criticism following the abduction, both the President and the Oyo State Governor remained composed and committed to securing the victims’ release.
“MURIC commends the audacity manifested by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the resilience exhibited by Governor Seyi Makinde, and the gallantry displayed by the security agents involved in the extensive operation,” Akintola stated.
The group highlighted the complexity of the rescue mission, noting that the kidnappers had used the victims as human shields, making any immediate or forceful intervention potentially disastrous.
According to MURIC, the eventual success of the operation was due to careful planning, technical isolation of the criminals, and psychological pressure that weakened their resistance.
Akintola also paid tribute to security personnel who lost their lives during the operation, calling for the immortalisation of Lt. Festus Isaac and his colleague.
He urged both the Federal Government and the Oyo State Government to provide adequate compensation to the families of the fallen officers, suggesting housing support and financial assistance.
While applauding the rescue, the group stressed the need for national unity in tackling insecurity, warning against religious division.
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“Good Christians are not our enemies. Good Muslims are not our enemies. Our common enemies are criminals who exploit religion. Unity of purpose remains essential in defeating terrorism and other forms of criminality,” the statement added.
MURIC reaffirmed its support for security agencies and called on Nigerians to remain patient and cooperative with authorities in ongoing efforts to combat kidnapping and other security challenges across the country.
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