The Crime Correspondents Association of Nigeria (CCAN) has thrown its weight behind the ongoing efforts of the Inspector-General of Police, (IGP) Olatunji Disu, to secure the safe rescue of pupils and teachers recently abducted in Oyo State.

CCAN expressed confidence in the operational capacity of the Nigeria Police Force to bring them home unharmed.

Recall, the IGP at a different forum had assured that the kidnapped victims will be recused unhurt.

In a statement jointly signed on Sunday by its Chairman, Festus Fifen, and Secretary, Peter Ireh, the association praised the IGP’s firm assurance that the abducted pupils would be rescued safely, describing the declaration as a reflection of the confidence, strategic leadership, and intelligence-driven policing approach that have characterized his administration.

According to CCAN, the Inspector-General’s public commitment to the safe recovery of the pupils has provided hope to distressed families and reassured Nigerians that security agencies are fully mobilised and working relentlessly to ensure the children’s return.

“The assurance by IGP Olatunji Disu that the abducted Oyo schoolchildren will be rescued unhurt is not mere optimism; it is a statement founded on the growing operational successes recorded by the Nigeria Police Force under his leadership,” the association stated.

CCAN noted that since news of the abduction emerged, the IGP has demonstrated strong leadership by coordinating security operations, deploying intelligence assets, and ensuring sustained collaboration among tactical and investigative units working on the rescue mission.

The association said the Inspector-General’s confidence stems from a track record of successful rescue operations and coordinated security interventions that have led to the recovery of hundreds of kidnap victims and the dismantling of criminal networks across the country.

It recalled several recent breakthroughs recorded by the Force, including the rescue of victims abducted in different parts of the country and the arrest of numerous kidnapping suspects, stressing that these successes have strengthened public confidence in the ability of the police to tackle violent crimes.

Particularly, CCAN highlighted the successful rescue of Mrs. Olaide Adegoke John-Paul and her 12-year-old twin sons, Peter and Paul, who were abducted in Ibadan, Oyo State, on June 3, 2026.

The association described the operation as evidence of the effectiveness of the intelligence-led policing strategy being championed by the IGP.

“The successful rescue of the victims in Ibadan and several other operations carried out nationwide demonstrate that the Inspector-General’s confidence is backed by results. Nigerians have witnessed a renewed determination by the police leadership to ensure that kidnappers and other criminal elements have no safe haven,” the statement added.

CCAN further commended the IGP for sustaining pressure on criminal groups through intelligence gathering, strategic deployments, enhanced inter-agency cooperation, and improved operational coordination across commands nationwide.

According to the association, the ongoing rescue efforts in Oyo State underscore the Force’s commitment to prioritising the safety of victims while pursuing criminals responsible for acts of kidnapping and terror.

The association also praised the broader reforms being implemented by the police chief, noting that the renewed focus on professionalism, accountability, intelligence-led policing, and community engagement is gradually rebuilding public trust in the Force.

“Under IGP Disu’s leadership, the Nigeria Police Force has demonstrated a renewed sense of purpose. The emphasis on intelligence-led operations, swift response to security threats, and people-centred policing is yielding positive results across the country,” CCAN said.

The association urged Nigerians to continue supporting security agencies with credible information that could aid ongoing operations, particularly efforts aimed at securing the safe release of the abducted pupils.

While expressing confidence in the ongoing rescue mission, CCAN encouraged the Inspector-General to sustain the momentum of reforms and operational successes, describing the current efforts as critical to strengthening national security and restoring public confidence in law enforcement.

The association reaffirmed its support for the Nigeria Police Force and expressed optimism that the abducted pupils would soon be reunited with their families unharmed.

“We are confident that the ongoing efforts being coordinated by the Inspector-General of Police will yield positive results. We pray for the safe return of the children and commend the dedication, courage, and professionalism of officers involved in the rescue operation,” the statement concluded. (The Nation)