President Bola Tinubu has expressed joy over the rescue of the pupils and teachers abducted from Oriire community in Ogbomoso, Oyo State, saying eight suspected terrorists were arrested while others were killed during the operation.
The President commended the military, the Department of State Services and the Nigeria Police Force for successfully rescuing the victims after 56 days in captivity without any casualties.
In a statement issued on Friday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu praised the security agencies for their commitment and professionalism throughout the rescue operation.
He said the successful operation brought an end to more than 50 days of anxiety for the victims, their families and the entire country.
“I am profoundly happy that our security forces successfully rescued the abducted pupils and teachers from Oriire, Ogbomoso in Oyo State after a military, police and intelligence-driven operation that neutralised some of the terrorists and led to the arrest of eight of them,” the President said.
He added that the operation had brought relief to the affected families and the nation.
Tinubu also expressed sadness over the pain and trauma suffered by the children, teachers and their families since they were abducted.
The President assured Nigerians that his administration would ensure justice for the victims, including the family of teacher Michael Oyedokun, who was killed by the kidnappers during the period of captivity.
“My government will get justice for these children and their teachers and for the family of Mr Oyedokun, who the terrorists murdered,” he said.
Tinubu commended the Oyo State Government for working closely with the Federal Government throughout the rescue efforts and urged the state to strengthen security around schools to prevent similar incidents.
He also directed emergency response agencies to work with the Oyo State Government to provide medical care, counselling and other relief support for the rescued pupils and teachers.
The victims were abducted on May 15 after armed men attacked the Ahoro-Esiele community in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, sparking nationwide concern.
Their rescue brings an end to one of the country’s most disturbing school kidnapping i
ncidents in recent months.
