…Honours fallen soldier

The Social Democratic Party (SDP) has said the successful rescue of 44 abducted schoolchildren and their teachers in Oyo State should serve as both a moment of national relief and a reminder of the heavy price security personnel continue to pay in the fight against terrorism.

Reacting to the rescue on Sunday, the party praised the Nigerian military and other security agencies for ending the victims’ 56-day captivity through what it described as a professionally executed, intelligence-led operation.

However, the SDP said the celebrations were tempered by the death of 28-year-old Lieutenant Felix Ademe Isaac, who was killed during the rescue mission.

In a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Araba Rufus Aiyenigba, the party described the late Army officer as a national hero whose ultimate sacrifice made it possible for dozens of children and their teachers to return safely to their families.

According to the SDP, the operation demonstrates that when security agencies are adequately coordinated, properly equipped and backed by strong political will, they can deliver decisive results against criminal groups.

The party noted that although the abduction of the pupils and teachers from three schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State on May 15 exposed lingering security vulnerabilities, their rescue offers hope that determined and intelligence-driven operations can defeat terrorism.

While applauding the security forces, the SDP urged the Federal Government not to rely solely on military action but to confront the economic hardship, poverty and social injustice that continue to fuel insecurity across the country.

It maintained that lasting peace would only come when security operations are matched with policies that improve citizens’ welfare and reduce the conditions that drive crime and violence.

The party extended condolences to the family of Lieutenant Isaac and expressed hope that his sacrifice would inspire greater national commitment to protecting lives and securing communities across Nigeria.