APC Stalwart Calls for Stronger Intelligence, Inter-State Security Cooperation and Renewed Commitment to Citizens’ Safety
Hon. Oluwatobi John Ogunbayo (OJO), an APC stalwart in the Ibadan North-West/Ibadan South-West Federal Constituency, has welcomed the safe rescue of the 20 prospective National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members from Oyo State who were abducted while travelling through Imo State to their orientation camps.
The 20 prospective corps members were abducted along the Owerri–Onitsha Road in Imo State on October 1, 2026, while travelling from Oyo State towards orientation camps in Abia and Akwa Ibom states. They were subsequently rescued on October 7 following sustained and coordinated search-and-rescue operations involving security agencies. The victims have since been taken for medical assessment and necessary care.
In his goodwill message, OJO commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma, the Oyo and Imo State Governments, and the various security agencies involved in the operation for their efforts toward securing the freedom of the victims.
OJO described the development as a moment of relief for the affected families, the people of Oyo State and Nigerians who had followed the incident with concern.
«“The safe rescue of these 20 young Nigerians is a welcome development and, most importantly, a moment of relief for their families and loved ones. Every Nigerian life matters, and the protection of citizens must remain a central responsibility of government at every level.”»
He particularly acknowledged the security agencies for the coordinated operation that ultimately secured the release of the prospective corps members. Reports indicate that the operation involved collaboration among the police, military, Department of State Services and other security agencies.
OJO also commended Governor Hope Uzodimma for acknowledging the importance of inter-agency and inter-state cooperation in addressing the incident. The Imo governor said information was deliberately restricted during the rescue effort because of the need to protect the lives of the captives and ensure the operation was not compromised.
SECURITY MUST REMAIN A COLLECTIVE PRIORITY
According to OJO, the incident further underscores the importance of strengthening intelligence gathering, community-based security networks, inter-agency coordination and rapid-response capabilities across Nigeria.
He called on security agencies to sustain efforts to identify and apprehend those responsible for the abduction and ensure that anyone found culpable faces the full weight of the law.
«“The successful rescue must not mark the end of the security response. The next step must be to strengthen intelligence gathering, track down those responsible and ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice through due process. Prevention must remain as important as rescue.”»
OJO further urged citizens to continue cooperating with security agencies by providing credible and timely information that could assist in preventing crimes and protecting communities.
He stressed that effective security is not solely the responsibility of government or law-enforcement agencies, but requires constructive cooperation between security institutions, community leaders, traditional institutions, civil society and citizens.
A MESSAGE OF SOLIDARITY TO THE FAMILIES
The APC stalwart extended his sympathy and solidarity to the families of the rescued prospective corps members, acknowledging the anxiety and emotional distress they endured throughout the period of uncertainty.
He also expressed hope that the rescued young Nigerians would receive the necessary medical attention, psychological support and care required to recover from the experience.
«“My thoughts and prayers are with the affected families. No parent or loved one should have to endure the anguish of not knowing the whereabouts of a child or relative. I thank God for their safe return and pray that they will recover fully, physically and emotionally, from this traumatic experience.”»
OJO noted that the incident also highlights the importance of ensuring that young Nigerians travelling across the country for national service can do so with greater confidence in their safety.
He reaffirmed his commitment to people-centred leadership, grassroots engagement, youth development, national unity and constructive democratic participation, stressing that security, economic opportunity and human capital development must remain interconnected priorities in building a stronger Nigeria.
As an APC stakeholder from the Ibadan North-West/Ibadan South-West Federal Constituency, OJO said he would continue to support initiatives and policies aimed at strengthening national security, empowering young Nigerians and promoting an environment where citizens can pursue their education, careers and aspirations without fear.
He concluded by congratulating the rescued prospective corps members and their families while commending the security personnel who participated in the operation.
«“Today, our message is one of relief, gratitude and renewed responsibility. We celebrate the safe return of these young Nigerians, but we must also learn from the incident. A safer Nigeria requires vigilance, cooperation, effective intelligence and responsible leadership at every level.”»
Hon. Oluwatobi John Ogunbayo (OJO)
APC Stalwart
Ibadan North-West/Ibadan South-West Federal Constituency
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