WATCH: Freed Oyo Pupils Return After 50-Day Ordeal

Pupils and teachers rescued from schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State have regained their freedom after spending more than 50 days in captivity. The rescue has ended weeks of worry about their safety and brought relief to families and the wider community.

videos shared online showed several of the rescued victims after they regained their freedom. Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy, confirmed the development on his 𝕏 account on Friday. He explained that security forces carried out the operation and successfully rescued the victims.

While announcing the news, Onanuga first stated that the victims had been released by their abductors before correcting his statement. He wrote, “Finally, the kidnapped pupils and teachers in Orire, Oyo have been freed by their abductors. The kidnapped pupils and teachers in Orire, Oyo have been rescued by Security Forces.”

Also Read: Kidnappers Arrested As Ogbomoso School Victims Freed

One of the online videos featured the school principal, Mrs Alamu, who thanked President Bola Tinubu and the security forces for securing their freedom. She praised everyone involved in the rescue and expressed relief that the victims returned safely.

She said, “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.

“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.

“Thank you, sir. Thank you, sir. God bless you, sir. God bless you, sir. Thank you, sir.”

The pupils and teachers rescued had been held for more than 50 days after their abduction from schools in Oriire Local Government Area. The incident sparked widespread concern and repeated calls for stronger efforts to secure their release. The successful operation has now brought that difficult period to an end.

What more can be done to strengthen security and protect schools from future attacks?