Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has disclosed that some security operatives lost their lives during the operation that secured the freedom of pupils and teachers abducted by bandits in Oriire Local Government Area of the state after 56 days in captivity.
The governor made the disclosure on Saturday after visiting the rescued victims at the Headquarters of the 2 Division Nigerian Army Medical Services, Odogbo Barracks, Ibadan, where they are receiving medical treatment.
Makinde described the successful rescue as a moment of gratitude and relief for the state, saying all 39 abducted pupils and five of the seven teachers had regained their freedom.
“The rescue operation came with sacrifices,” the governor said. “Some security operatives lost their lives during the operation.”
He extended condolences to the bereaved families, assuring them that the sacrifices of the fallen personnel would not be in vain.
Makinde announced that the rescued victims would remain under medical observation for 48 hours before being formally handed over by the military to the Oyo State Government for rehabilitation.
“The rescued victims will remain under medical observation for the next 48 hours, after which an assessment will be conducted before their formal transfer from military authorities to the Oyo State Government for further management and rehabilitation,” he said.
The governor noted that although the pupils and teachers were delighted to regain their freedom, many appeared physically weak and would require medical treatment as well as psychosocial support to recover from the trauma of their prolonged captivity.
He also revealed that arrangements were being made to reunite the victims with their families, particularly mentioning a young girl who has repeatedly asked to see her mother since she was rescued.
Makinde commended the Nigerian Army and other security agencies for their efforts in securing the victims’ release and urged Nigerians to remain united in confronting the country’s security challenges.
He added that he would brief the people of Oyo State and Nigerians next week on the circumstances surrounding the abduction and the security operations that culminated in the successful rescue of the victims.
