Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has stated that his administration’s first priority is to reunite the students and teachers released from captivity in Oriire Local Government Area with their families and help them with rehabilitation following their 56-day captivity.
The governor announced this in a post on his X account on Friday, following the victims’ successful rescue and expressing appreciation for their safe return after over two months in the possession of their abductors.
Makinde stated that the state government will guarantee that the recovered students and instructors receive the required care to recuperate from the physical and mental damage they endured during their captivity.
“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 involved in the rescue operation, praising their courage, professionalism, and commitment to securing the victims’ freedom.
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.”
The presidency confirmed that the abducted students and teachers were rescued alive during a coordinated security operation.
Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, stated that eight suspected kidnappers were arrested and several others were killed during the operation.
Onanuga also stated that the rescue was carried out without negotiations or concessions to the abductors.
“In the course of the rescue operation, eight of the kidnappers were arrested and are now in DSS custody, while some of them were neutralized.
“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 students and instructors expressed their appreciation to President Tinubu and security authorities. In a video issued by the president, one of the victims praised him for his efforts to win their release.
“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.
The president also welcomed the successful operation and commended the security agencies for rescuing the victims safely.
