The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) has given thanks to God following the rescue of pupils and teachers abducted from schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, describing the development as a divine response to weeks of prayers and fasting.
The church said the victims’ safe return reaffirmed its faith in God’s power to answer prayers, while applauding security agencies for their role in bringing the captives home.
Church expresses gratitude
In a message shared on its official X account on Friday, RCCG said the rescue fulfilled God’s promise and brought relief to the victims’ families and countless Nigerians who had prayed for their freedom.
The church stated that the outcome demonstrated the effectiveness of persistent prayer and unwavering faith during difficult times.
In its message, RCCG said, “And our God arose like He promised. Glory be to our God for answering our prayers and fulfilling His word. We also appreciate the efforts of all the security agencies in securing the release of our school children and their teachers from captivity. Congratulations to them and their families. Our God answers prayers.”
Adeboye recounts period of intercession
The church’s post featured a video of its General Overseer, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, speaking at the US-Nigeria Faith Heroes Award Gala organised by the Save Nigeria Group in Washington, D.C., on June 23.
Adeboye explained that RCCG immediately embarked on prayers and fasting after learning of the abduction, seeking God’s intervention for the safe return of the victims.
He said the killing of one of the teachers while the victims were still in captivity was heartbreaking and strengthened the church’s resolve to continue praying until they regained their freedom.
According to the cleric, God assured him that the children would be rescued in a remarkable way, although the exact time and manner of their release were not disclosed.
Call for improved security
While addressing guests at the event, Adeboye also spoke on Nigeria’s security challenges, saying kidnapping and terrorism had spread beyond the northern part of the country.
He defended President Bola Tinubu against claims that his administration had failed to tackle insecurity, noting that the President had directed the military to confront the threats.
Adeboye, however, urged the Federal Government to intensify efforts against terrorism and those financing criminal activities.
Victims freed after nearly two months
The abducted pupils and teachers regained their freedom on Friday after spending 57 days in captivity.
Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga announced the development, saying security agencies carried out the rescue operation successfully without yielding to the kidnappers’ demands.
The victims were abducted on May 15 after gunmen attacked Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery and Primary School, and L.A. Primary School in the Esiele and Yawota communities of Oriire Local Government Area.
Thirty-nine pupils and seven teachers, including a principal, were taken during the attacks.
Teacher Joel Adesiyan was killed while trying to escape during the abduction, while another teacher, Michael Oyedokun, was later killed by the kidnappers.
The abductors reportedly demanded the release of detained terrorist commanders, ransom payments, two Hilux vehicles and the implementation of Sharia-related laws before releasing the hostages.
Throughout the ordeal, the Oyo State Government maintained that it would not pay ransom, insisting that the victims would be rescued through security operations.