Tinubu Hails Security Forces as Abducted Oyo Schoolchildren, Teachers Regain Freedom After 56-Day Ordeal

President Bola Tinubu has commended Nigeria’s security agencies following the successful rescue of the schoolchildren and teachers abducted from Oriire community in Ogbomoso, Oyo State, ending a 56-day captivity.

In a statement issued on Friday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President praised the military, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Police Force for their coordinated efforts, describing the operation as a major victory against terrorism.

According to the statement, the joint military, police, and intelligence-led operation not only secured the safe release of the victims but also neutralised some of the terrorists responsible for the abduction, while eight suspects were arrested.

President Tinubu expressed relief over the rescue, acknowledging the emotional trauma endured by the victims, their families, and the nation during the weeks-long ordeal.

“I am profoundly happy that our security forces successfully rescued the abducted pupils and teachers from Oriire, Ogbomoso, in Oyo State today after a military, police and intelligence-driven operation that neutralised some of the terrorists that perpetrated the evil act and led to the arrest of eight of them,” the President said.

He described the operation as bringing an end to more than 50 days of anxiety and uncertainty, while applauding the courage and professionalism of the security personnel involved.

The President also vowed that his administration would ensure justice for the rescued victims and for the family of Mr. Oyedokun, who was reportedly killed by the abductors during the incident.

“My government will get justice for these children and their teachers and for the family of Mr. Oyedokun, who the terrorists gruesomely murdered,” he stated.

Tinubu further commended the Oyo State Government for its collaboration with the Federal Government throughout the rescue mission and urged the state to strengthen security measures around schools to prevent similar incidents.

“I must commend the Government of Oyo State for working cooperatively with us in bringing this unfortunate incident to a successful end,” the President added.