Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde says the immediate priority of his administration is to reunite and rehabilitate teachers and pupils rescued from kidnappers in Oriire Local Government Area. The victims were held for 56 days before being freed during a coordinated security operation. Makinde, in a statement posted on his X account, says the state will ensure the rescued children and teachers return to their families and receive support to help them recover from physical and emotional trauma. He also expresses gratitude for the victims’ safe return and commends the security agencies involved in the rescue.
The reports follow confirmation from the Presidency that the operation succeeded in freeing the abducted people. A presidential aide, Bayo Onanuga, says eight suspected kidnappers were arrested and others were neutralised, with no concessions made to the abductors despite their demands. In a video released by the Presidency, at least one of the rescued victims thanks President Bola Tinubu and the security forces for their efforts. President Tinubu welcomes the operation and praises the security personnel for their bravery.
