President Bola Tinubu has assured the abducted pupils and teachers from Oriire community in Ogbomoso, Oyo State, that his administration would ensure justice is served following their successful rescue after 56 days in captivity.
The President expressed profound joy over the safe rescue of the victims by security forces, describing the operation as a major victory against criminality and a testament to the effectiveness of coordinated military and intelligence efforts.
The rescue followed weeks of intensive military, police and intelligence operations that eventually dismantled the kidnappers’ network, leading to the safe release of the victims and renewed confidence in ongoing efforts to tackle insecurity across the country.
Tinubu commended the armed forces, the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Police Force for working tirelessly to secure the release of the children and their teachers without collateral damage on Friday.
He also praised the security agencies for arresting eight suspected kidnappers and neutralising others during the operation.
According to the President, the successful mission ended more than 50 days of anxiety for the victims, their families and the nation, while demonstrating the Federal Government’s commitment to protecting lives and combating terrorism.
“I am profoundly happy that our security forces successfully rescued the abducted pupils and teachers from Oriire, Ogbomoso in Oyo State after a military, police and intelligence-driven operation that neutralised some of the terrorists responsible for the attack and led to the arrest of eight others,” Tinubu said.
He added that the operation had brought relief to the affected families and the entire country, expressing gratitude to the officers and personnel of the armed forces, intelligence agencies and the police for their professionalism and sacrifice.
The President vowed that those behind the abduction would face the full weight of the law.
“My government will get justice for these children and their teachers and for the family of Mr. Oyedokun, who the terrorists gruesomely murdered,” he declared.
Tinubu also sympathised with the rescued pupils, teachers and their families over the trauma they endured during the period of captivity, acknowledging the emotional pain and uncertainty they experienced throughout the ordeal.
He commended the Oyo State Government for its cooperation with the Federal Government and security agencies, noting that the collaborative efforts contributed significantly to the successful rescue mission.
The President further urged the state government to strengthen security around schools to prevent similar incidents and safeguard pupils, teachers and other residents.
To support the victims’ recovery, Tinubu directed relevant emergency response agencies to work with the Oyo State Government in providing immediate medical care, psychosocial support and other relief services for the rescued children and their teachers.