OYO RESCUE: CONFER NATIONAL HONOURS ON SECURITY CHIEFS, AGBESE URGES TINUBU

The Deputy Spokesman of the House of Representatives, Philip Agbese, has called on President Bola Tinubu to confer the prestigious Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger national honour on Nigeria’s top military leadership, citing recent security successes in Oyo and Borno states as evidence of improved operational effectiveness.

Agbese, who represents Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo Federal Constituency of Benue State and is the Leader of the Labour Party in the state, made the appeal at The State of Affairs gathering with security experts, professionals and promoters in Abuja on Sunday.

This followed the recent successful rescue of schoolchildren and teachers abducted in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, as well as the foiling of an attempted mass abduction of students in Monguno, Borno State.

According to the lawmaker, the achievements of the armed forces under the current military leadership deserve national recognition, particularly at a time when the country continues to battle insurgency, banditry and other security threats.

He stated, “The successful resolution of the Orire abduction after 56 days in captivity and the decisive intervention in Monguno demonstrate the growing effectiveness of our security apparatus under your leadership.

“Our Chief of Defence Staff, Chief of Army Staff, and other principal military officers deserve the prestigious GCON honours for restoring hope to families and protecting the future of our children. These achievements merit national recognition.”

In the early hours of Sunday, suspected fighters of the Islamic State West Africa Province reportedly attempted to attack the Federal Government Girls College in Monguno, which was being used as temporary accommodation for students of a polytechnic institution.

Troops of Operation HADIN KAI, working alongside personnel of the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies, engaged the attackers in a fierce gun battle, forcing them to retreat without abducting any of the 46 students in the facility.

Although the students were reportedly evacuated to safety at Kinnasara Barracks, stray bullets reportedly hit some persons during the exchange of fire. Security authorities have since launched a manhunt for the fleeing terrorists while investigations are ongoing into alleged local collaborators.

Commending the troops for their swift response, Agbese described the operation as a demonstration of the military’s improved readiness and professionalism.

“Today’s operation in Monguno is a clear demonstration of the Army’s vigilance and rapid response capability. By foiling the abduction of these girls, our troops have prevented another national tragedy.

“I salute the gallant officers and men who risked their lives. Their professionalism under Operation HADIN KAI should inspire confidence across the Northeast and the entire country,” he stated.

Agbese also praised the security agencies for securing the release of pupils and teachers abducted from three schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State on May 15.

The victims regained their freedom after spending 56 days in captivity in what security officials described as a coordinated intelligence-led operation.

“The safe return of the Orire victims remains a victory worth celebrating. It shows what coordinated intelligence and military efforts can achieve,” the lawmaker remarked.

He stressed that recognising outstanding service within the armed forces would not only boost the morale of personnel but also reinforce public confidence in the nation’s security institutions.

“As a member of the opposition, I believe in giving credit where it is due. Honouring our security chiefs with GCON will boost morale and signal that excellence in protecting Nigerians transcends partisan lines,” he added.

Agbese further urged the Federal Government to sustain investments in military hardware, intelligence gathering and the welfare of security personnel to consolidate recent gains in the fight against insecurity.

“Mr President, let this be the beginning of greater collaboration. Nigerian parents and students deserve nothing less than absolute safety in their schools and communities.

“The heroes who delivered these results must be celebrated. GCON for our security leadership is a fitting tribute to their service and sacrifice,” he stressed.

The GCON is Nigeria’s second-highest national honour and is traditionally conferred on individuals who have made exceptional contributions to national development and public service.

Agbese argued that recognising the country’s military leadership at a time of renewed security operations would send a strong message that courage, professionalism and dedication in safeguarding the nation are valued and rewarded.