President Bola Tinubu has welcomed the successful rescue of the pupils and teachers kidnapped from schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, describing their release as a major victory for Nigeria’s security forces after nearly two months in captivity.
The President said the operation has brought hope and relief to the affected families and the entire country, following the victims’ 56-day ordeal.
Security Forces Earn Presidential Commendation
In a statement released on Friday by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu praised the combined efforts of the Nigerian Armed Forces, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Police Force for carrying out what he described as a carefully coordinated mission.
According to the President, the operation secured the safe release of the hostages without causing harm to them. He also applauded the security agencies for arresting eight suspected kidnappers while neutralising several others involved in the crime.
President Hails End of Weeks-Long Captivity
Reacting to the development, Tinubu expressed gratitude to the officers who participated in the intelligence-led mission, saying the successful operation brought an end to a tense standoff that had lasted for more than 50 days.
He noted that the rescue was a source of comfort not only to the victims’ families but also to Nigerians who had anxiously followed the case since the abduction occurred.
Tinubu Mourns Teacher Killed by Kidnappers
While celebrating the rescue, the President also reflected on the pain endured by the abducted pupils, their teachers and their loved ones throughout the period of captivity.
He paid tribute to Michael Oyedokun, the mathematics teacher who was reportedly killed while being held by the kidnappers, assuring Nigerians that those responsible would face justice.
Tinubu vowed that his administration would pursue accountability for the murder and ensure justice for all victims affected by the attack.
Oyo Government Applauded for Joint Effort
The President commended the Oyo State Government for maintaining close cooperation with the Federal Government throughout the rescue mission.
He said the collaboration between both levels of government contributed significantly to the operation’s success and urged state authorities to strengthen security measures around schools to prevent similar attacks in the future.
Medical Support Ordered for Rescued Victims
Tinubu also instructed relevant emergency and humanitarian agencies to work alongside the Oyo State Government in providing immediate medical attention, counselling and other forms of assistance to the rescued pupils and teachers as they recover from their traumatic experience.
Abduction Lasted 56 Days
The pupils and their teachers were kidnapped on May 15 after armed men attacked three schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
Their rescue on Friday officially brought to an end 56 days of captivity, closing one of the state’s most closely watched kidnapping cases in recent months.
