Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde says his administration is now focused on reuniting the recently rescued pupils and teachers abducted in Oriire Local Government Area with their families while providing them with the care and rehabilitation needed to recover from their traumatic experience.
In a statement shared on his X account on Friday, the governor expressed gratitude over the safe return of the victims after spending 56 days in captivity.
Makinde said the state government would prioritise their physical and emotional recovery before they return to normal life.
“Our priority now is to ensure they are reunited with their families and support their rehabilitation after this traumatic experience,” the governor said.
He also praised the military, the Department of State Services (DSS), the police and other security agencies involved in the rescue mission, describing their efforts as courageous and commendable.
“We also commend the security agencies that took part in the rescue operations for their sacrifices. May the souls of those who paid the ultimate price rest in peace, and may God comfort their families,” Makinde added.
The governor’s remarks followed the Presidency’s confirmation that the abducted teachers and pupils were rescued alive during a coordinated security operation.
According to the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, eight suspected kidnappers were arrested, while several others were neutralised during the operation.
“There was no quid pro quo in the rescue as one of the terrorists, a kingpin, whose release the kidnappers demanded, is being prosecuted for his atrocities,” Onanuga stated.
He added that security agencies would provide a full account of the operation in due course.
Following their rescue, the victims expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu and the security agencies for securing their freedom.
In a video released by the Presidency, one of the rescued teachers thanked the President and security operatives for their efforts.
“We are grateful, Mr President, sir. We understand your commitment to our safety, and we appreciate all you did for us,” the rescued victim said.
President Tinubu also commended the security agencies for successfully rescuing the victims and bringing an end to their weeks-long ordeal.
Source: Governor Seyi Makinde’s X account and the Presidency.
