Photo caption: Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde
Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has expressed relief following the rescue of pupils and teachers abducted in Orire Local Government Area of the state, describing their release after 57 days in captivity as “a big relief” for their families and the people of Oyo State.
Speaking during a brief telephone interview on Politics Today on Channels Television on Friday, shortly after news of the rescue broke, Makinde thanked President Bola Tinubu and security agencies for their efforts in securing the victims’ freedom.
“It’s such a big relief for all of us and for those waiting, you know, for this past 57 days. I think it’s a big relief for all of us,” the governor said.
He commended 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 congratulated the people of the state over the successful rescue.
“Congratulations again, and my goodwill and my congratulations to your government and the people of Oyo State. Thank you so much.”
PUNCH Online had earlier reported 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.
The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, disclosed on Friday that the victims were rescued alive through a coordinated security operation without yielding to the kidnappers’ demands.
According to him, the eight suspects are currently in the custody of the Department of State Services for further investigation.
He added that there was no negotiation or exchange to secure the victims’ release, despite the abductors demanding the release of one of their detained kingpins.
“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, that the kidnappers demanded his release, is being prosecuted for his atrocities. The security agencies will give full account soon,” Onanuga stated.
Following their rescue, the pupils and teachers also expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu and security operatives.
In a video shared by the Presidency, one of the rescued victims thanked the President for his commitment to ensuring 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 also praised the security personnel involved in the rescue mission, saying their efforts made it possible for them to return home alive.
