Reports say the abducted pupils and teachers in Oriire, Oyo State, have finally regained their freedom.
A statement by presidential spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, said the victims were freed through the efforts of security agencies.
Onanuga excitedly wrote: “Finally, all the kidnapped pupils and teachers in Oriire, Oyo State, have been rescued by our security agencies.”
According to the statement, eight members of the kidnapping gang were arrested during the rescue operation and are now in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS).
It made it clear that the rescue operation did not involve any exchange or concession to the kidnappers, revealing that a notorious gang leader whose release had been demanded by the abductors remains in custody and is being prosecuted for his alleged crimes.
In a video shared on social media platforms, one of the female teachers rescued was seen thanking President Bola Tinubu for securing their release.
“Hello sir, our father, 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 your hand in this. Thank you very much. Every security operative tried so much, and that is why we are still alive today. We are very grateful to you. Thank you very much,” the teacher said.
Meanwhile, there have been celebrations by indigenes of Oriire LGA in particular and Oyo State in general.
