Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has said the immediate priority of his administration is to reunite the pupils and teachers rescued from captivity in Oriire Local Government Area with their families and provide them with rehabilitation after their 56-day ordeal.
The governor stated this in a post on his X handle on Friday, following the successful rescue of the victims, expressing gratitude over their safe return after nearly two months in the custody of their abductors.
Makinde said the state government would ensure the rescued pupils and teachers received the necessary care to recover from the physical and emotional trauma they experienced 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 commended 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.”
His comments followed the Presidency’s confirmation that the abducted pupils and teachers had been rescued alive during a coordinated security operation.
The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said eight suspected kidnappers were arrested while several others were killed during the operation.
According to Onanuga, the rescue was carried out without negotiations or concessions to the abductors, despite their 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 pupils and teachers expressed gratitude to President Tinubu and the security agencies. In a video released by the Presidency, one of the victims thanked the President for his efforts to secure their freedom.
“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.