The Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR) has commended security agencies for the successful rescue of the teachers and pupils abducted in Oyo State, describing the operation as a major victory that should galvanise a nationwide offensive against kidnapping, violent extremism and other forms of organised crime.

In a press statement issued on Friday and signed by its National President, Comrade 'Yinka Folarin, and National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Adewunmi Adesina, the organisation said the successful rescue demonstrated the effectiveness of collaboration among governments, security agencies and local communities in tackling insecurity.

CDHR praised the Federal Government, the Oyo State Government, the Nigerian Armed Forces, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), local security volunteers and other security and emergency agencies for what it described as their professionalism, courage and intelligence-led operations that led to the safe return of the victims.

While celebrating the rescue, the rights group stressed that the victims' recovery should not end with their release, urging the Federal and Oyo State governments to provide comprehensive medical examinations, trauma assessments, psychosocial support, counselling and rehabilitation services for the rescued teachers and pupils.

"The trauma of abduction does not end with freedom; it must be addressed through deliberate and sustained government intervention," the statement said.

The organisation noted that Nigeria's growing security challenges require preventive and community-based approaches rather than reactive responses, warning that kidnapping, banditry, terrorism and violent extremism continue to threaten the safety of citizens, particularly schoolchildren and teachers.

It called on the Federal Government, state and local governments, security and intelligence agencies, traditional and religious leaders, civil society organisations, educational institutions, Community Development Associations (CDAs), youth and women groups, vigilante organisations and grassroots communities to strengthen collaboration in the prevention and countering of violent extremism through intelligence gathering, early warning systems, civic education and the prompt reporting of suspicious activities.

CDHR also urged governments at all levels to reinforce security around schools by deploying modern surveillance technology, improving infrastructure, increasing security personnel, strengthening emergency response mechanisms and investing in intelligence-led policing capable of preventing attacks before they occur.

The organisation further appealed to Nigerians to remain vigilant and support lawful efforts to combat insecurity by providing credible information to security agencies, stressing that the fight against criminality cannot be won by security agencies alone.

It reaffirmed its solidarity with the rescued teachers and pupils as they begin the process of recovery, while also expressing concern for Nigerians still being held captive across the country.

According to the group, sustained investment in intelligence gathering, community policing, victim support services and the prevention and countering of violent extremism remains essential to guaranteeing the safety, security and fundamental rights of all Nigerians.