Oriire rescue shows criminals can be defeated with strong political backing — Gbenga Hashim

By Ibrahim Hassan-Wuyo

ABUJA — Presidential candidate of the Accord Party for the 2027 general election, Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, has commended Nigeria’s security agencies for rescuing victims abducted in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State after about 50 days in captivity.

Hashim said the successful operation demonstrated that Nigeria’s security forces have the capacity to defeat criminal groups when provided with sustained political support and strategic direction.

In a statement issued at the weekend, he described the rescue as a significant achievement, arguing that the country’s security challenges are not due to a lack of competence among security personnel but the need for consistent political leadership.

“We have never doubted the ability of Nigeria’s defence forces to secure the country. What has often been lacking is clarity of purpose and unwavering political leadership,” he said.

Hashim recalled the role played by Nigerian troops in peacekeeping operations in Liberia and Sierra Leone under the Economic Community of West African States Monitoring Group (ECOMOG), saying the military had demonstrated its capability in restoring peace during regional conflicts.

He urged the Federal Government and security agencies to replicate the coordinated rescue operation in other parts of the country affected by kidnapping and violent crime.

“The same determination that secured the freedom of the Oriire victims must now be deployed across every community where innocent Nigerians remain in captivity. No family should be left to suffer when the state has the capacity to act,” he said.

Hashim also called for stronger political backing for security agencies and urged security chiefs to intensify efforts to rescue kidnapped victims and dismantle criminal networks.

He congratulated the Nigerian Armed Forces, the Nigeria Police Force and the Department of State Services (DSS) for what he described as their courage, professionalism and sacrifice during the operation.

He also congratulated the rescued victims and their families, praying for their speedy physical, emotional and psychological recovery.