Group Backs Forest Guard Recruitment, Expresses Confidence in Safe Return of Oyo Abduction Victims By Raymond Enoch
An advocacy group, the Tinubu Media Volunteers (TMV), has expressed confidence in the safe return of students and teachers abducted by terrorists in Oyo State, while commending President Bola Tinubu’s directive for the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards as part of measures to address the security challenge.
The group described the federal government’s response to the incident as timely and comprehensive, noting that the measures approved by the President demonstrated empathy for the victims and a strong commitment to the protection of lives and property.
In a statement signed by its Chairman, Chukwudi Enekwechi, and Secretary, Segun Ogedengbe, TMV acknowledged the recent visit of a high-powered federal delegation led by the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, to the affected communities as part of ongoing efforts to secure the release of the kidnapped victims.
According to the group, the President approved a series of immediate interventions following the attack on the students and teachers, an incident that sparked public outrage and protests across parts of the country.
The statement highlighted key measures approved by the President, including the immediate recruitment of 1,000 forest guards in collaboration with the Oyo State Government, consideration for the establishment of a military outpost in the affected area, and the deployment of a specialized security unit to track and apprehend the perpetrators.
TMV stated that the initiatives reflect the administration’s determination to ensure the safe rescue of the victims and prevent similar occurrences in the future.
“We believe that with the wide-ranging steps approved by President Tinubu, the President has shown empathy for the victims and demonstrated his administration’s commitment towards guaranteeing the safety of all citizens,” the group said.
The organization further expressed optimism that the measures would not only address the immediate security concerns but also contribute to broader security reforms across the country.
It noted that while the interventions are temporary, they could serve as a foundation for the eventual establishment of state police, which many stakeholders have advocated as a long-term solution to Nigeria’s security challenges.
TMV also commended President Tinubu’s position that no child should become a victim of kidnapping or be denied access to education because of insecurity.
According to the group, the President’s stance underscores his commitment to safeguarding the welfare, education, and future of Nigerian children.
The group called on Nigerians to view security as a collective responsibility and urged citizens to support the efforts of the Tinubu administration in combating insecurity and restoring peace across the country.
