Human rights lawyer, Mr Femi Falana (SAN) has commended Nigeria’s security forces for the successful rescue of dozens of abducted schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State, while urging intensified efforts to free others still in captivity across the country.

Falana, who spoke yesterday as Chairman of the Alliance on Surviving COVID-19 and Beyond (ASCAB), praised the operation that led to the release of 42 schoolchildren and six of the seven teachers kidnapped from three schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State about two months ago.

While congratulating the rescued victims and their families, he expressed sympathy with the family of Michael Oyedokun, the teacher who was killed by the abductors.

He called for the recovery of the deceased’s remains to enable a proper burial.

Falana also paid tribute to military, police, and other security personnel who lost their lives during the rescue mission, describing their sacrifices as heroic and deserving of national recognition. He urged the government to ensure that their families receive prompt compensation and support.

The senior advocate noted that the successful operations in Oyo and Borno States demonstrate the capacity of Nigeria’s armed forces to tackle kidnapping and insurgency if adequately equipped and motivated.

He, however, called on security agencies to intensify efforts to secure the release of other abducted persons, including 176 residents of Woro community in Kaiama Local Government Area, reportedly kidnapped in February 2026, as well as about 40 students abducted while sitting for their NECO examinations at Government Secondary School, Lassa, in Borno State on June 29, 2026.

Falana stressed that the recent rescues, including that of 360 abductees in Borno State, should serve as a model for future operations, urging the Federal Government to prioritise intelligence-driven interventions rather than allowing citizens to resort to ransom payments.

He further called for enhanced protection of schools, particularly in rural areas, noting that the forthcoming school vacation period presents an opportunity for authorities to strengthen security infrastructure around educational institutions.

The human rights lawyer also urged the National Assembly to release the report of its investigation into the alleged mismanagement of funds under the Safe School Initiative, which reportedly involves $30 million and N145 billion contributed by both the Federal Government and private organisations.

He maintained that accountability and proper utilisation of such funds are critical to safeguarding schools and preventing further attacks on students and educators.