Disu expressed deep sorrow over the officer's death, describing him as a hero who paid the supreme price while working alongside other security agencies to secure the release of the victims.
No fewer than 39 pupils and seven teachers were abducted by terrorists in May from Ahoro-Esinle, Yawota and Alawusa communities in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
At least two teachers were reportedly killed in captivity before the remaining victims were rescued by a joint team comprising the police, the military, the Department of State Services (DSS) and other security operatives after spending 56 days in the forest.
Speaking at the Force Headquarters in Abuja on Friday while receiving officers who participated in the rescue mission, the IGP commended the operatives for their courage and professionalism.
“We just finished prayer for the officer we lost in the Oyo State school abduction incident. You remember I called all of you here some few weeks back where I advised you and told you you'll be joining other sister agencies in a very serious national assignment,” Disu said.
“I’m happy you guys went and you did us proud. I got information from the commander of the operation on the parts you played. I cannot thank you enough for your national service.”
The police chief disclosed that officers who sustained injuries during the operation were recovering and assured them of continued support from the Force.
“For the others who sustained injury, we are happy they are recovering very fast,” he said, adding that both government and private hospitals had been engaged to ensure the injured officers received adequate treatment.
Disu also defended the practice of publicly acknowledging the deaths of officers killed in the line of duty, stressing that police personnel are human beings who deserve to be honoured and mourned.
“Police officers first and foremost are human beings. Police officers have emotions. Police officers feel it when a colleague dies,” he said, noting that such officers died while protecting citizens.
The Inspector-General praised the cooperation among security agencies involved in the operation, insisting that no single agency could tackle insecurity alone.
“We have made up our minds to work together, train together and fight this insurgency together,” he stated.
He further appealed to Nigerians to support security agencies by providing timely and credible information.
“We beg you. We plead to members of the public. If you see something, say something. Cooperate with the security agencies.
“The situation we have now is such that everybody must come together. Give us information. Assist us to nip it in the bud. Because the life you save may be your own,” he added.
One of the officers who participated in the operation said the team viewed the abducted children as their own and remained determined to secure their freedom.
“We didn't look at them as victims. We look at them as our own children. Every step we took, we took those steps for the children. And this is what we are trained for,” the officer said.
He added that the successful rescue mission was a fulfilment of their duty to protect lives and respond whenever Nigerians are in distress.
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