President Bola Tinubu has welcomed the rescue of schoolchildren and teachers abducted from Oriire community in Ogbomoso, Oyo State, after 56 days in captivity.
The President said the successful operation brought relief to the affected families and the nation, describing the rescue as the result of sustained efforts by the military, the Department of State Services and the Nigeria Police Force.
In a statement issued on Friday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu commended the security agencies for what he described as a coordinated, intelligence-driven operation that secured the victims’ release.
According to a report by Sahara Reporters, Onanuga also disclosed that eight suspected kidnappers were arrested during the rescue operation and are now in DSS custody, while some others were neutralised.
The Presidency said there was no prisoner exchange involved in the rescue, noting that one of the persons allegedly demanded by the abductors, described as a terrorist kingpin, is already facing prosecution.
Tinubu said the rescue ended more than 50 days of anxiety for the families of the abducted pupils and teachers, as well as Nigerians who had followed the incident with concern.
“I am profoundly happy that our security forces successfully rescued the abducted pupils and teachers from Orire, Ogbomoso in Oyo State,” Tinubu said.
He said the operation was carried out by the military, police and intelligence agencies, adding that some of the perpetrators were neutralised while eight others were arrested.
The President also promised that justice would be pursued for the victims, their families and the family of Mr. Oyedokun, whom the Presidency said was killed by the abductors 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 gruesomely murdered,” he said.
Tinubu also commended the Oyo State Government for cooperating with the Federal Government throughout the rescue effort.
He urged the state government to strengthen security around schools and other vulnerable public institutions to prevent similar attacks in the future.
The Presidency further stated that Tinubu had directed relevant emergency response agencies to work with the Oyo State Government to provide medical attention, psychological support and other necessary relief for the rescued victims.
The President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting citizens and ensuring that those responsible for violent crimes are brought to justice.