Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has voiced his relief after the rescue of students and teachers kidnapped in the Orire Local Government Area, calling their release after 57 days in captivity “a significant relief” for their families and the residents of Oyo State.
In a brief phone interview for Politics Today on Channels Television on Friday, right after the rescue news emerged, Makinde expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu and security agencies for their role in securing the victims’ release.
“It’s such a big relief for all of us and for those waiting, you know, for these past 57 days. I think it’s a big relief for all of us,” the governor said.
He applauded the Nigerian Police Force, the Department of State Services, the military and other security agencies involved in the operation.
“We’ll use the opportunity to say thank you to our service commanders, the Nigerian Police, the DSS, the military and the high command and, of course, the President for pushing really hard to have this done.
“I think I’m just right now overjoyed, and I cannot say much. I will talk much later when I can put my thoughts together,” Makinde added.
The governor also praised the state’s residents for the successful rescue.
“Congratulations again, and my goodwill and my congratulations to your government and the people of Oyo State. Thank you so much.”
Chronicle NG reports that the presidency confirmed the rescue of the abducted pupils and teachers, with eight suspected kidnappers arrested while several others were neutralised during the operation.
Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, revealed on Friday that the victims were saved alive via a coordinated security operation that did not comply with the kidnappers’ demands.
He stated that the eight suspects are presently held by the Department of State Services for further enquiry.
He mentioned that there were no negotiations or trades made to ensure the victims’ freedom, even though the kidnappers requested the release of one of their captured 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 stated.
After their rescue, the students and teachers conveyed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu and the security forces.
In a video released by the presidency, one of the rescued individuals expressed gratitude to the president for his dedication to their safe return.
“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 victim commended the security staff engaged in the rescue operation, stating that their actions enabled them to come back home safely.
