Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has said his administration’s immediate focus is to reunite the teachers and pupils rescued from kidnappers in Oriire Local Government Area with their families and provide them with rehabilitation following their 56-day captivity.
The governor disclosed this in a post shared on his X account on Friday, expressing relief over the safe rescue of the victims after spending nearly two months in the hands of their abductors.
Makinde said the state government would ensure the victims receive the care and support needed to recover from the physical and psychological effects of their ordeal.
“Our priority now is to ensure they are reunited with their families and support their rehabilitation after this traumatic experience,” he said.
The governor also applauded the security agencies that participated in the operation, commending their dedication, professionalism and sacrifices in securing the release of the victims.
He said, “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’s remarks came after the Presidency confirmed that the abducted teachers and pupils were rescued alive during a coordinated security operation.
Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, disclosed that eight suspected kidnappers were arrested, while several others were killed during the mission.
According to Onanuga, the operation was executed without yielding to the kidnappers’ demand for the release of one of their detained leaders.
“In the course of the rescue operation, eight of the kidnappers were arrested and are now in DSS custody, while some of them were neutralised.
“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. The security agencies will give a full account soon,” Onanuga said.
Following their rescue, the teachers and pupils 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 victims said:
“We are grateful, Mr President, sir. We understand your commitment to our safety, and we appreciate all you did for us. We could see it in your heart. Thank you very much,” the victim said.
President Tinubu also welcomed the successful operation and praised the security agencies for ensuring the victims were rescued safely.
