The Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has expressed profound joy over the rescue of the pupils and teachers abducted from Oriire Local Government Area of the state, describing their return as a moment of gratitude and relief for the state.
Governor Makinde spoke after visiting the rescued victims at the Headquarters of the 2 Division Nigerian Army Medical Services, Odogbo Barracks, Ibadan, where the pupils and teachers are receiving medical attention following their release from captivity.
The governor disclosed that all 39 pupils and five of the seven abducted teachers had been rescued and reunited with security personnel, giving glory to God and commending officers and men of the Nigerian Army and other security agencies for their efforts in securing the victims’ freedom.
Makinde, however, noted that the rescue operation came with sacrifices, revealing that some security operatives lost their lives during the operation.
He extended condolences to the bereaved families and assured them that the sacrifices of their loved ones would not be in vain.
Speaking on the condition of the rescued victims, the governor said the pupils and teachers were happy to regain their freedom but noted that some of them appeared physically weak and would require medical care and psychosocial support to overcome post-traumatic experiences from their prolonged captivity.
According to him, the rescued victims will remain under medical observation for the next 48 hours, after which an assessment will be conducted before their formal transfer from military authorities to the Oyo State Government for further management and rehabilitation.
Governor Makinde also disclosed that arrangements were being made to bring family members to the barracks to see their loved ones, particularly noting the case of a young girl who had repeatedly asked for her mother since regaining freedom.
He urged Nigerians to remain united in the face of security challenges, stressing that difficult periods should serve as moments for collective action rather than division.
The governor added that he would officially brief the people of Oyo State and Nigerians in the coming week on the circumstances surrounding the abduction and the efforts that culminated in the successful rescue of the victims.
