- Governor Seyi Makinde welcomed the rescue of the abducted pupils and teachers in Oyo State
- The Presidency confirmed all victims were freed after 57 days in captivity
- Eight suspected kidnappers were arrested during the security operation
Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has expressed relief following the rescue of schoolchildren and teachers abducted by suspected bandits in Oriire Local Government Area, describing their release as a welcome development after nearly two months in captivity.
Speaking during an interview with Channels Television on Friday, Eko Hot Blog gathered that the governor said the successful operation brought joy to families, residents and everyone who had been praying for the victims’ safe return.
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Makinde appreciated the efforts of the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), the military, other security agencies and President Bola Tinubu for their roles in securing the release of the victims.
He said the development was a major relief after 57 days of uncertainty and noted that he would speak further after fully processing the outcome of the operation.
The Presidency had earlier confirmed that all the kidnapped pupils and teachers were rescued during a coordinated security operation.
Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, announced the development in a post on X on Friday.
According to him, security operatives arrested eight suspected members of the kidnapping syndicate, who are now in the custody of the DSS, while several others were neutralised during the operation.
Onanuga also disclosed that the rescue mission was carried out without meeting any of the kidnappers’ demands, including their request for the release of an alleged gang leader currently facing prosecution.
He added that security agencies would provide a detailed account of the operation in due course.
A video released after the rescue showed one of the freed teachers thanking President Tinubu and the security agencies for their efforts.
The teacher expressed appreciation for the commitment shown by the government and security personnel, saying their intervention ensured the victims returned home safely.
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