The Coalition of Civil Rights Groups on Security Sector Reforms (CCRGSR) has warmly applauded the Armed Forces of Nigeria and the pivotal role of Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, for the successful and well-coordinated rescue of 44 kidnap victims in Oriire, Oyo State.
The operation, concluded around July 10, 2026, resulted in the safe return of all abducted pupils and teachers to their families following the May incident.
This achievement reflects a marked improvement in joint operational synergy and intelligence sharing across security agencies under the current administration.
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja on Monday, July 20, 2026, Emmanuel Agabi described the mission as a model of professionalism executed in difficult forest terrain, despite the sad loss of some officers.
The group emphasised how the CDS’s leadership has transformed inter-service collaboration, enabling ground troops, air support, and intelligence units to function as a cohesive force that effectively dismantled criminal networks.
He said: “Today, the Coalition of Civil Rights Groups on Security Sector Reforms (CCRGSR) stands before you with a profound sense of gratitude and national pride. We gather not merely to acknowledge isolated incidents, but to appraise significant milestones in our collective fight against insecurity: the successful rescue of the Oriire kidnap victims in Oyo State.”
“We particularly laud the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, for his outstanding coordination of joint operations. General Oluyede has masterfully orchestrated a paradigm shift where the Army, Navy, Air Force, and other services view themselves as equal partners in a unified command structure.”
The coalition further commended the Nigeria Police Force for providing essential ground support, investigative work, and community liaison that complemented military efforts.
They noted that recent operations in multiple states have led to neutralisation of bandit elements, hostage rescues, and recovery of arms and livestock, signalling broader progress in restoring peace.
Nevertheless, the groups stressed the need for ongoing reforms to tackle persistent threats in ungoverned spaces.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was praised for his commitment to strengthening security through better funding, training, and inter-agency cooperation.
The coalition urged sustained investment in equipment modernisation, enhanced civil-military relations, and stronger community policing initiatives.
“Their resilience in the face of adversity has not only rescued innocent citizens but has also dismantled key elements of the criminal networks responsible for these heinous acts,” Agabi added.
“To the families of the fallen heroes who paid the ultimate price, we extend our deepest condolences. At the helm of this transformative security framework is His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.
” We commend President Tinubu for his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to fortifying Nigeria’s security architecture… The President’s emphasis on a whole-of-government approach has yielded tangible results.”
The coalition concluded by reaffirming its readiness to partner with the government and security institutions in building a safer nation.
“We charge the Nigeria Police Force to do even more: deepen community policing reforms, enhance forensic and investigative capacities, and strengthen partnerships with vigilante and local security networks.”
“In conclusion… We laud President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Chief of Defence Staff General Olufemi Oluyede, the entire Armed Forces of Nigeria, and the Nigeria Police Force for the successful Oriire rescue and ongoing operations.
“Your efforts are restoring hope and confidence in our nation. We stand ready to partner in building a safer, more secure Nigeria where every citizen can thrive without fear.”
