Trending 
13th July 2026
The family of Lieutenant Felix Ademe, the Nigerian Army officer who lost his life during a rescue operation in Oyo State, has expressed profound grief, describing his death as a devastating blow from which they may never fully recover.
Speaking after the tragic incident, the late officer’s father, Isaac Alabura, said the family had lost its greatest source of hope and support.
“Our hope is gone,” the grieving father lamented, recalling his son’s commitment to his military career and dedication to protecting lives despite the dangers associated with the profession.
Lieutenant Ademe was among security personnel involved in an operation aimed at rescuing victims abducted by suspected kidnappers in Oyo State. The operation forms part of intensified military efforts to combat kidnapping and other violent crimes that have continued to threaten communities across the South-West and other parts of Nigeria.
Although security operatives have recorded several successes against criminal gangs in recent months, the operation turned tragic when the young officer was fatally wounded while confronting the kidnappers.
His death has once again highlighted the enormous sacrifices made daily by members of the Nigerian Armed Forces in the fight against terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other security challenges confronting the country.
Family members described Lieutenant Ademe as hardworking, disciplined and deeply committed to serving Nigeria. According to them, beyond being a soldier, he was the family’s breadwinner and a source of inspiration whose dreams were cut short in the line of duty.
The incident has sparked an outpouring of sympathy from members of the public, colleagues and community leaders, many of whom have called on the Federal Government to ensure that families of fallen security personnel receive adequate financial support, compensation and welfare benefits.
Security analysts say the increasing frequency of rescue operations underscores both the bravery of Nigerian security forces and the growing threat posed by heavily armed criminal groups, particularly kidnappers who continue to target commuters, schools and rural communities for ransom.
The death of Lieutenant Ademe comes at a time when Oyo State has witnessed renewed security concerns, including the recent abduction of schoolchildren and teachers, as authorities intensify efforts to dismantle kidnapping networks operating in the region.
As investigations into the operation continue, Nigerians have continued to pay tribute to the fallen officer, remembering him as one of many security personnel who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the nation.
