by UNITY TIMES South-West Bureau
ABEOKUTA — Five students of Gateway ICT Polytechnic, Saapade, Ogun State, abducted by gunmen have regained their freedom following coordinated security operations involving the police and other security agencies.
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The students were reportedly kidnapped while travelling along a major highway, sparking anxiety across the institution and renewed calls for stronger protection of educational institutions.
Security officials confirmed that the rescue operation also led to the freedom of several other victims believed to have been held by the same criminal network.
Although authorities have yet to disclose full operational details for security reasons, police sources indicated that intelligence gathering and coordinated tactical deployment were instrumental in securing the victims’ release.
The incident once again highlights the persistent threat posed by kidnapping syndicates targeting schools, commuters and rural communities.
Education stakeholders say repeated attacks continue to undermine learning, increase psychological trauma among students and discourage parents from sending children to school.
The Federal Government has continued implementing its Safe Schools Initiative, while several states are expanding community policing and surveillance around educational institutions.
Security experts argue that protecting schools requires stronger intelligence sharing, improved rural policing and investment in early warning systems.
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