SWEGOP Calls for Stronger Security in Border Communities After Rescue of Oriire Abducted Pupils

The South West Guild of Online Publishers (SWEGOP) has called for improved security in border communities to protect residents and prevent a recurrence of the Oriire abduction.

The abducted school pupils and teachers were rescued on Friday through the combined efforts of military and paramilitary personnel after fifty six days in captivity.

The guild, in a statement issued on Sunday by its Chairman, Bisi Oladele, and Public Relations Officer, Remi Oladoye, commended President Bola Tinubu, Governor Seyi Makinde and security agencies for their heroic roles in securing the release of more than 40 school pupils and teachers kidnapped from schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

The guild described the successful operation as a testament to the importance of political will and effective collaboration among security agencies in tackling insecurity.

The publishers’ guild particularly applauded the gallantry, resilience and professionalism displayed by the security agencies throughout the rescue operation, noting that their commitment restored hope to the affected families and the people of Oyo State.

SWEGOP sympathised with the families of fallen security personnel and residents who lost loved ones during the unfortunate incident and prayed for the repose of the souls of the deceased.

The guild pointed out that a series of terrorist abductions has revealed a pattern of targeting border communities with inadequate security, poor telecommunications and internet services, poor road infrastructure, and easy escape routes into neighbouring countries.

It called on governments at all levels to adopt the same level of cooperation among security agencies, community leaders and non-state actors in protecting vulnerable residents of border communities.

The guild urged both the Federal Government and the Oyo State Government to sustain investments in intelligence gathering, surveillance, rapid response and community policing to ensure that schools remain safe for teaching and learning.

SWEGOP reaffirmed its commitment to responsible journalism and pledged continued support for initiatives that promote peace, public safety, and the protection of lives and property across the South-West and Nigeria as a whole.