The Senator representing Abia North, Orji Uzor Kalu, has commended President Bola Tinubu, the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, and Nigeria’s security agencies for the successful rescue of pupils and teachers abducted from schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

In a statement personally signed on Wednesday, the former Abia State governor described the rescue as “a great relief to the victims, their families and the nation.”

He praised the coordinated efforts of the Office of the National Security Adviser, the Armed Forces of Nigeria, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services, the National Intelligence Agency, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps and other security and intelligence agencies, saying their professionalism and resilience made the operation successful.

According to Kalu, “The successful operation reflects the importance of sustained collaboration among Nigeria’s security institutions and the continued support of the Federal Government in tackling insecurity across the country.”

While congratulating the rescued pupils, teachers and their families, the senator cautioned politicians and public office holders against politicising security issues.

“Security is not a partisan matter. Criminals do not ask their victims which political party they belong to before attacking them. When our security agencies record successes, every Nigerian should encourage them because such victories belong to the nation as a whole,” he said.

Kalu also commended President Tinubu and the National Security Adviser for their roles in strengthening the country’s security architecture.

“I commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture, the National Security Adviser for coordinating intelligence and security operations, and our gallant security personnel whose sacrifices continue to keep our country safe. They deserve our appreciation and support,” he added.

The lawmaker urged political leaders and public commentators to adopt a united approach in addressing insecurity.

“I appeal to politicians and public commentators to avoid playing politics with issues of security. What Nigerians expect from all of us is constructive support, responsible engagement and a united front against criminality. Our collective objective should be the protection of lives and property, irrespective of political differences,” he said.

Kalu sympathised with the families of the victims over the weeks of uncertainty they endured and prayed for the full physical and emotional recovery of those rescued.

He also urged security agencies to sustain the momentum by intensifying intelligence gathering, strengthening inter-agency collaboration and ensuring that those responsible for kidnapping and terrorism are brought to justice.

The senator reaffirmed his commitment to supporting legislative measures and policies aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s security institutions and improving the safety of citizens, particularly schoolchildren.

He also called on Nigerians to continue supporting security agencies by providing credible and timely information to aid the fight against insecurity.