…Assures Technology-Driven Rescue of Abducted Oyo Pupils and Teachers
Abayomi Susan
The Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and the Southwest geopolitical zone, DIG Adegoke Fayoade, mni, has commenced an official security and operational assessment tour of the Southwest region with strategic engagements in Ibadan, Oyo State, aimed at strengthening inter-agency collaboration, enhancing community partnerships, and improving policing effectiveness across the zone.
The tour commenced with courtesy visits to Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, and the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, during which discussions focused on deepening cooperation between the Nigeria Police Force, government institutions, traditional authorities, and local communities in advancing peace, security, and sustainable development.
During his meeting with Governor Makinde, DIG Fayoade commended the Oyo State Government for its sustained support to security agencies and emphasized the critical role of intelligence sharing, community policing, and inter-agency collaboration in addressing emerging security threats across the Southwest. He noted that collective efforts remain essential to sustaining the relative peace and stability currently enjoyed in Oyo State and the wider region.
At the Olubadan’s Palace, the DIG underscored the importance of traditional institutions in grassroots security, conflict resolution, and community engagement. In response, the Olubadan praised the Nigeria Police Force for its commitment to maintaining law and order and pledged continued support towards ensuring a safer Ibadanland and Southwest region.
As part of the tour, DIG Fayoade also visited the Oyo State Police Command Headquarters, where he addressed officers, personnel, and stakeholders on professionalism, discipline, intelligence-led policing, and improved service delivery.
Speaking during the engagement, the DIG assured residents that the Nigeria Police Force is leveraging advanced technological tools and technical expertise to facilitate the safe rescue of pupils and teachers recently abducted in Oriire Local Government Area of the state.
According to him, ongoing efforts are producing positive results, with the Force remaining committed to securing the victims’ release without harm.
“Technology is already being deployed in the rescue operation. It is only a matter of time before the abducted pupils and teachers are reunited with their families. Our priority is to ensure their safe return,” he stated.
DIG Fayoade explained that the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Disu, had directed all Deputy Inspectors-General to undertake nationwide sensitization and operational assessment tours aimed at engaging officers, strengthening community relations, and reinforcing public confidence in policing.
Describing technology as a cornerstone of modern policing, he noted that the Force continues to deploy digital tools, intelligence systems, and technical expertise to combat crime and enhance public safety.
He further urged officers at all levels to uphold professionalism, transparency, and accountability, stressing that public trust remains indispensable to effective policing. He encouraged officers to remain responsive, objective, and committed to delivering quality service to citizens.
The DIG also called on residents and stakeholders to support security agencies through timely and credible information, emphasizing that community participation remains vital to combating criminality and safeguarding the Southwest region.
Earlier, the Commissioner of Police, Oyo State Command, CP Olugbenga Ayodeji Abimbola, welcomed the DIG and expressed confidence that the visit would further strengthen the operational capabilities of officers through knowledge-sharing, strategic engagements, and professional development initiatives.
The Southwest tour will take DIG Fayoade across the six states of the region as he evaluates operational activities, engages key stakeholders, and strengthens partnerships aimed at enhancing security outcomes and public safety.
The Ibadan engagements have set a positive tone for the tour, reflecting the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to proactive policing, technological innovation, strategic partnerships, and community-driven security solutions across the Southwest.
