By Eshioromeh Sebastian
President Bola Tinubu has expressed joy over the successful rescue of pupils and teachers abducted from schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, commending security forces for their relentless efforts over the past 56 days.
The victims were freed on Friday through a coordinated operation involving the military, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the police . Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga confirmed the development via his X handle, stating: “Finally, all the kidnapped pupils and teachers in Oriire, Oyo have been rescued by our security agencies”.
Providing further details, Onanuga disclosed that the operation led to the arrest of eight suspected kidnappers, now in DSS custody, while several others were neutralised during the mission.
He also dismissed speculation that the government made concessions to secure the victims’ release, clarifying that a kingpin whose release the kidnappers demanded remains in custody and is facing prosecution.
President Tinubu praised the security agencies for working tirelessly and achieving the rescue without any collateral damage.
In a statement, he said: “I am profoundly happy that our security forces successfully rescued the abducted pupils and teachers from Oriire, Ogbomoso in Oyo State today after a military, police and intelligence-driven operation.”
The President regretted the anguish the victims and their families endured since the May 15 abduction, when heavily armed gunmen stormed three schools, Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery and Primary School, and L.A. Primary School—in the Esiele and Yawota communities.
The attack claimed the life of a teacher during the raid, while another was later beheaded, sparking national outrage.
Tinubu vowed that justice would be served for the murdered teacher, Mr. Oyedokun, and his family.
He also commended the Oyo State Government for cooperating with federal authorities and directed emergency agencies to provide medical and relief support to the rescued victims.
Rescued victims expressed gratitude to the President in a video shared by the Presidency, with one saying: “We are grateful, Mr President, sir. We understand your commitment to our safety, and we appreciate all you did for us” .
The successful operation ends a weeks-long ordeal that had kept families and the nation on edge since the abduction .
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