Professor Wole Alamu, husband of the school principal, Mrs Rachel Alamu, who was among the 39 students and seven teachers abducted in Oyo State, has urged Nigerians to unite in tackling the menace of kidnapping and other violent crimes in the country.
Prof Alamu, on behalf of his family, made the call while reacting to the release of the principal and other kidnapped victims, in a statement on Sunday.
Mrs Alamu and other kidnap victims were rescued by a combined team of security agencies on Friday.
The family, while expressing joy over the safe return of the victims, noted that Nigerians irrespective of their religion, sex, tribe or political affiliation must unite and fight insecurity in the country.
Prof Alamu said the rescue of the victims has further convinced them that Nigerians are wonderful people following the outpouring of love from across the country.
He commended President Bola Ahmed, governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, security agencies and other stakeholders who facilitated the rescue.
It also expressed gratitude to traditional rulers, religious groups and leaders, media and other stakeholders who stood by them during the trying period.
Alamu, however, commiserated with families of those who lost their loved ones in the attack and prayed for the safe return of all victims who are still in captivity throughout the country.
“The family of Professor Wole Alamu has expressed deep appreciation to the Almighty God and to all Nigerians (home and abroad), for their prayers, support (morally and financially), and shared efforts, leading to the safe rescue of their loved ones from bandits’ captivity.
“The family urges Nigerians irrespective of religious or ethnic affiliations to remain united in tackling the various ills plaguing the country. Expressed sympathy to those whose loved ones passed away and affirming that the love and concern demonstrated during the travail is a testimony of strength and capability.
“Let us aspire to remake Nigeria where every citizen is safe and is unhindered in pursuing their dream bereft of fear and chaos. We commit the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Oyo State, Ogbomosoland, and our security operatives to the hand of God, may God grant us the kind of country our hearts thirst for – peaceful and conducive for national and individuals’ prosperity.”