Governor says victims are receiving treatment after 56 days in captivity, praises security agencies and mourns fallen operatives.
Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has described the rescue of the pupils and teachers abducted in Oriire Local Government Area as a moment of gratitude and relief, confirming that the victims will remain under medical observation for 48 hours.
Speaking on Saturday after visiting the rescued victims at the Headquarters of the 2 Division Nigerian Army Medical Services, Odogbo Barracks, Ibadan, Governor Makinde said the medical observation would be followed by an assessment before their formal handover from the military to the Oyo State Government for rehabilitation.
The governor disclosed that all 39 pupils and five of the seven abducted teachers had regained their freedom after spending 56 days in captivity.
Governor Makinde praised the Nigerian Army and other security agencies for their courage and professionalism during the rescue operation, while revealing that some security personnel lost their lives in the mission.
He extended condolences to the families of the fallen officers, assuring them that their sacrifices would not be forgotten.
According to the governor, some of the rescued victims appeared physically weak and would require medical treatment and psychosocial support to recover from the trauma of their ordeal.
He added that arrangements were being made for family members to reunite with the victims, revealing that one of the rescued girls had repeatedly asked to see her mother since regaining her freedom.
Governor Makinde urged Nigerians to remain united in tackling insecurity, stressing that challenging times should inspire collective action rather than division. He also promised to brief residents of Oyo State next week on the circumstances surrounding the abduction and the operation that secured the victims’ release.