Student bodies in Ogun State have endorsed the security operation that secured the release of abducted students of ICT Polytechnic, Sapade, describing the rescue as evidence that coordinated action among security agencies can produce tangible results against kidnapping.
The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Ogun State Joint Campus Council, and the National Association of Ogun State Students (NAOSS) also commended the Ogun State Government for its role in the operation. The intervention had strengthened confidence in the state’s security architecture, according to them.
Their position was contained in a joint statement signed by the Chairman of NANS Ogun JCC, Habeebullahi Adekunle Tijani, popularly known as Kennyology, and the National President of NAOSS, Olubodun Olalekan Opeyemi.
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The associations praised the Ogun State Police Command, the Department of State Services, the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, local vigilante groups, and other security agencies involved in the operation. They also acknowledged the rescue of other victims freed alongside the students.
The student groups argued that the operation demonstrated the value of sustained cooperation between security agencies and members of the public.
The association said, “The successful operation has once again shown that when security agencies receive the necessary support and cooperation from the public, they are better positioned to discharge their constitutional responsibilities effectively.”
They also commended the administration of Governor Dapo Abiodun, with an emphasis on the government’s collaboration with security agencies having contributed to the successful outcome of the rescue mission.
While expressing appreciation to security personnel for their efforts, the associations noted that addressing insecurity requires collective responsibility rather than relying solely on law enforcement agencies.
They urged students across the state to remain vigilant and security-conscious, while encouraging them to provide credible and timely information that could assist security agencies in preventing crimes and conducting rescue operations.
Rather than resorting to protests whenever security incidents occur, the associations advised students to engage constructively with security agencies and support lawful efforts aimed at protecting lives and property.
The groups also called on the management of tertiary institutions to strengthen security arrangements on their campuses through improved surveillance systems, regular review of security protocols, and closer collaboration with security agencies.
According to the associations, creating a secure academic environment is essential for effective teaching and learning.
NANS Ogun JCC and NAOSS pledged to continue working with the Ogun State Government, security agencies, tertiary institutions, and other stakeholders to promote intelligence sharing, community policing, and peace across campuses and host communities.
They expressed confidence that sustained collaboration among government institutions, security agencies, and citizens would further improve the safety of students and residents in Ogun State.
