Agbese hails military successes under CDS Oluyede, cites 662 terrorists killed in Q2

The Deputy Spokesperson of the House of Representatives, Philip Agbese, has commended the Nigerian Armed Forces for what he described as significant operational gains under the leadership of the Chief of Defence Staff, CDS, General Olufemi Oluyede, saying joint military operations have recorded remarkable successes against terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and oil theft.

Mr Agbese, who represents Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo Federal Constituency of Benue State on the platform of the Labour Party, spoke with journalists in Abuja on Sunday.

He attributed the successes to improved collaboration among the Nigerian Army, Navy, Air Force and other security agencies, saying the renewed inter-service synergy had led to the neutralisation of criminal elements, rescue of kidnapped victims and recovery of territories previously threatened by armed groups.

“Those who genuinely follow developments in our security sector will agree that the Armed Forces have become more coordinated and more decisive in confronting criminal elements,” he said.

“Under the leadership of General Olufemi Oluyede, we are seeing a level of synergy among the services that is producing visible results. The military is not merely responding to attacks; it is taking the battle to terrorists, kidnappers, bandits and oil thieves across different parts of the federation.”

Mr Agbese cited the military’s June operational report, saying troops neutralised 129 terrorists and other criminal elements, arrested 486 suspects and rescued 542 kidnapped victims.

According to him, security forces also recovered 130 firearms and 5,538 rounds of ammunition, dismantled seven illegal refining sites and recovered more than 308,000 litres of stolen petroleum products.

“These are not ordinary statistics. Behind every figure is a community made safer, families reunited with loved ones, dangerous weapons taken off our streets and criminal organisations denied the resources they depend on,” he said.

The lawmaker particularly praised the rescue of hundreds of civilians held captive by insurgents in the North-East, describing it as a major humanitarian achievement.

“The rescue of hundreds of innocent Nigerians, many of them women and children who had spent months in captivity, speaks volumes about the commitment and professionalism of our troops.

“These brave men and women continue to risk their lives every day so that ordinary Nigerians can live in peace, and as a nation we owe them our gratitude and unwavering support.”

Mr Agbese also highlighted the Armed Forces’ second-quarter operational performance, saying the results demonstrated sustained pressure on criminal networks across the country.

He said between April and June, troops neutralised 662 terrorists and other criminal elements, arrested 1,084 suspects and rescued 951 kidnapped victims.

He added that security operatives recovered 328 firearms and more than 12,500 rounds of ammunition, dismantled 12 illegal refining sites and recovered over 464,000 litres of stolen petroleum products.

“These achievements reflect sustained pressure on criminal networks and show that our security forces are steadily reclaiming the initiative,” he said.

The lawmaker urged Nigerians to support the military by providing credible intelligence and cooperating with security agencies.

“Our armed forces cannot fight this battle alone. Citizens must continue to provide timely information, reject collaboration with criminal groups and stand firmly behind our security personnel.

“The progress we are witnessing today should encourage all Nigerians to believe that with sustained support, strong leadership and continued operational momentum, lasting peace is achievable.”

Mr Agbese expressed confidence that increased investment in intelligence gathering, modern military equipment and personnel welfare would further strengthen the Armed Forces’ capacity to restore peace and stability across the country.

He added that the National Assembly would continue to support policies and initiatives aimed at enhancing Nigeria’s security architecture and improving the operational capabilities of the Armed Forces.