The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has honoured officers who rescued seven teachers and 39 pupils abducted in Oyo State, while paying tribute to a sergeant killed during the operation.
The Nigeria Police Force announced on Friday that the reception at the Force Headquarters in Abuja followed the successful conclusion of a 56-day operation in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, where the victims were freed after spending nearly two months in captivity.
The operation came at a painful cost as Sergeant John Jerome Abena of the Force Intelligence Department–Intelligence Response Team lost his life while taking part in the rescue mission. Offering condolences to the officer’s family, the Inspector-General described the late sergeant as a patriot whose courage reflected the finest values of policing.
Disu assured the bereaved family that the Force would continue to provide sustained support and welfare, stressing that Sergeant Abena’s sacrifice would never be forgotten.
Addressing members of the Nigeria Police Force Special Intervention Squad and the Force Intelligence Department–Intelligence Response Team, who carried out the mission alongside other security agencies, the police chief praised their courage and patriotism. He said the successful operation showed the Force’s growing intelligence-led approach to protecting lives and tackling violent crime across the country.
He also disclosed that the rescued teachers and pupils were absent from the ceremony because they are receiving medical care and psychological support to aid their recovery.
The Inspector-General said the welfare, motivation and recognition of personnel involved in dangerous assignments remain a major focus of his leadership.
“A policeman is first of all a human being,” he said.
Disu urged officers and men of the Force to remain vigilant and determined in confronting criminal activities, while reaffirming the Police’s commitment to protecting lives and property across Nigeria.