The 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has lauded the Nigeria Police Force for their prompt and professional action in rescuing Mrs.
Folashade Odumusu, wife of retired Assistant Inspector General of Police, Hakeem Odumusu, who was recently kidnapped.
In a statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, Muyiwa Adejobi, the successful operation, carried out within a week, resulted in Mrs. Odumusu’s safe recovery, the neutralization of several kidnappers, and the seizure of weapons and ransom money.
Taking to social media on Friday, Obi praised the Ogun State Police Command for their decisive and effective response, highlighting that the operation demonstrated the police’s ability to deliver results when properly motivated.
Commendation for Precision and Professionalism
Obi commended the precision with which the rescue mission was executed, noting that it not only ensured the victim’s safe release but also dismantled a criminal network. He emphasized that the operation serves as proof of the Nigeria Police’s capacity to combat crime effectively when equipped with adequate resources and strong leadership.
He also acknowledged the technical support provided by the Force Headquarters and the exceptional commitment shown by the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, in ensuring the successful outcome of the rescue mission. The IGP, in turn, commended the Ogun State Police Command for their diligence in breaking up the criminal syndicate behind the abduction.
Obi Calls for Equal Attention to All Nigerians
While praising the successful rescue, Obi urged the police to extend the same level of urgency and professionalism to cases involving ordinary Nigerians, whose plights are often overlooked or unresolved.
In his statement, Obi wrote:
“I commend the Nigeria Police for their swift and effective response in rescuing Mrs. Folashade Odumusu, the wife of retired AIG Hakeem Odumusu, who was kidnapped just a few days ago. The operation, conducted within a week, highlights their capacity to act decisively when motivated.
“What stands out is the precision with which the rescue mission was executed. It not only led to the safe release of the victim, unharmed, but also resulted in the neutralization of some kidnappers, the recovery of weapons, and the retrieval of the ransom. Such a professional outcome deserves high praise.
“This success story underscores a critical point: with proper leadership, motivation, and adequate support from the top echelon of security agencies, the fight against crime can yield impressive results.
“While celebrating this laudable achievement, I urge the Nigeria Police to extend the same level of urgency and professionalism to cases involving everyday Nigerians – those whose plights are often underreported or ignored. Many innocent citizens remain victims of abduction, languishing in captivity without rescue efforts reaching them.
“This successful operation is a testament to the possibilities that lie within our security architecture when it is properly managed and prioritized. It demonstrates that, even in the face of challenges, a new Nigeria is truly POssible.”
A Call for Strengthened Security
As Nigeria continues to face rising cases of kidnapping and insecurity, Obi’s remarks emphasize the need for sustained reforms in the nation’s security architecture. He believes that with proper leadership, adequate resources, and consistent professionalism, the fight against crime can yield even more successes.
This rescue operation offers hope and serves as a reminder of what is achievable when security agencies are empowered to perform their duties effectively. Obi’s call for equitable attention to all Nigerians resonates as a crucial step toward building a safer and more inclusive society.
