Oyo State Government has paid tribute to civilians and security personnel who lost their lives during the operation that led to the rescue of abducted pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area, describing them as heroes whose sacrifices would remain etched in the memory of the state.
In a memorial message shared on its official X account on Wednesday, the government celebrated the safe recovery of the victims while expressing sorrow over the loss of lives recorded during the rescue mission.
“While we express gratitude for the safe return of the children and teachers abducted from Oriire LGA, we also wish to honour those who lost their lives. We extend our deepest condolences to the bereaved families. We commit to supporting them during this trying period. May their souls rest in peace,” the state government stated.
As part of the tribute, the government released an “In Memoriam” list featuring the names of civilians and security operatives who died during the Ahoro-Esinle and Yawota abduction incident.
Those honoured include:
Civilians
Mr Michael Oyedokun
Deacon John Olaleye
Mr Joel Adesiyan
Mr Oluwasegun Akanni
Military and security personnel
Lieutenant F. A. Isaac
Mr Adigun Saibu
Mr Isa Saliu
Mr Rafiu Ayuba
One unidentified soldier
The pupils and their teachers were abducted on May 15, 2026, after armed men attacked three schools located in Ahoro-Esinle and Yawota communities in Oriire LGA.
They were eventually rescued after spending approximately 57 days in captivity following a joint operation involving security agencies.
The attack had earlier claimed the lives of two teachers; Mr Michael Oyedokun and Mr Esiyan Adegboye, during the abduction. While Adegboye’s remains were recovered and buried after the incident, Oyedokun’s body has not yet been found.
Oyedokun’s family has appealed to President Bola Tinubu, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde and relevant security authorities to intensify efforts to recover his remains so he can receive a proper burial.
The rescue mission itself also resulted in the deaths of some security personnel who participated in the operation to secure the release of the victims.
The Oyo State Government commended their bravery, reaffirming its commitment to standing with the families of those who lost their lives and ensuring that the sacrifices of the fallen heroes are not forgotten.
