The pupils and teachers who were abducted by gunmen in the Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State have regained their freedom following a successful operation by security agencies.
The development was confirmed on Friday by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, who announced the successful rescue of the victims.
In a video released by the Presidency shortly after their liberation, the visibly relieved victims expressed deep appreciation to President Bola Tinubu and the security operatives involved in the mission.
“We are grateful, Mr President, sir. We are grateful. 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,” one of the rescued victims said in the recording.
The victim also highly praised the tactical precision of the security personnel, attributing their survival to the rapid response of the forces.
“And every security operative tried so much and that is why we are still alive now. We are very grateful to you. Thank you very much,” the freed victim added, amidst choruses of appreciation from the rest of the group.
The abduction in Orire Local Government Area had triggered widespread anxiety across Oyo State, prompting an immediate mobilization of regional security architectures, including the military, police, and local hunters. The agrarian nature of the border communities between Oyo and neighboring states has historically left them vulnerable to predatory criminal syndicates, making this swift rescue a crucial win for regional stability.
While the presidency has lauded the synergy among the security branches, tactical teams are still combing the forest axes to apprehend the fleeing perpetrators. The rescued students and faculty members are currently undergoing medical evaluation and psycho-social support before they are formally reunited with their families.
