Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde has said his administration’s immediate focus is to reunite the pupils and teachers rescued from captivity in Oriire Local Government Area with their families and provide them with the support needed to recover from their 56-day ordeal.
Drivetvnews gathered In a statement shared on his X account on Friday, the governor expressed gratitude over the successful rescue of the victims, stressing that the state government would ensure they receive adequate physical, emotional and psychological care.
“Our priority now is to ensure they are reunited with their families and support their rehabilitation after this traumatic experience,” Makinde stated.
The governor also praised the security agencies involved in the operation, commending their courage, professionalism and sacrifices in securing the victims’ freedom.
He paid tribute to security personnel who lost their lives during the mission, saying, “May the souls of those who paid the ultimate price rest in peace, and may God comfort their families.”
The Presidency had earlier confirmed the successful rescue of the abducted pupils and teachers through a coordinated security operation.
According to the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, eight suspected kidnappers were arrested while several others were neutralised during the operation.
Onanuga explained that the victims were rescued without any negotiations or concessions to the abductors, despite their demand for the release of one of their detained leaders.
He added that the arrested suspects are currently in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS), while the alleged kingpin whose release was demanded is already facing prosecution.
Following their rescue, the pupils and teachers expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu and the security agencies for securing their freedom after nearly two months in captivity.
