Governor commends security forces as Presidency confirms eight kidnappers arrested and others killed during rescue operation
Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has said the immediate priority of his administration is to reunite the teachers and pupils rescued from kidnappers in Oriire Local Government Area with their families and provide them with the support needed to recover from their ordeal.
The victims, who spent 56 days in captivity, regained their freedom following a coordinated security operation involving multiple security agencies.
Makinde disclosed this in a post on his X account on Friday, expressing gratitude over the successful rescue and assuring residents that the state government would support the victims’ physical and psychological recovery.
“Our priority now is to ensure they are reunited with their families and support their rehabilitation after this traumatic experience,” the governor said.
Makinde commended the security agencies involved in the operation for their professionalism, dedication and sacrifice.
“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,” he added.
Presidency Confirms Arrests, Neutralisation of Suspects
The governor’s remarks came after the Presidency confirmed that the abducted teachers and pupils were rescued alive during a coordinated security operation.
The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, disclosed that eight suspected kidnappers were arrested, while several others were killed during the mission.
According to him, the operation was successfully carried out without meeting the kidnappers’ 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.
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Following their rescue, the teachers and pupils expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu and the security agencies for securing their freedom.
In a video released by the Presidency, one of the rescued victims thanked the President for his commitment to their safety.
“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.
President Tinubu also welcomed the successful operation and commended the security agencies for rescuing the victims safely.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.