Oyo State Governor, Gov. Seyi Makinde has pledged government’s commitment to the recovery and rehabilitation of the rescued pupils and teachers from Oriire Local Government Area.
Makinde visited the victims Saturday at the military medical facility inside Odogbo Barracks, Ibadan.
The News Agency of Nigeria recalls that the 44 pupils and teachers, who were abducted on May 15 when gunmen attacked three schools in Yawota and Ahoro-Esiele communities of Oriire LGA, were successfully rescued on Friday.
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The 44 abductees were freed after 56 days in captivity through a joint operation by the Nigerian Army, DSS, Police, NSCDC and others.
The governor, who was led into the hospital wards by the GOC, Div. 2, Nigerian Army, Maj.-Gen. Chinedu Nnebeife, said he was relieved by their safe return. He added, “Hopefully, by Monday, the victims will be reunited with their families.”
The traditional ruler of Ogbomosoland, Oba Ghandi Olaoye, and Sen. Fatai Buhari, APC – Oyo North, had also separately visited the victims on their hospital beds.
Meanwhile, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja has commended the intervention of President Bola Tinubu, the security agencies, and local hunters, in the release of kidnapped victims in the Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
In a statement by his media aide, Chief Adeola Oloko, the royal father noted that the feat had further demonstrated the Federal Government’s commitment to the security of lives and property of the citizenry.
He described the release of the victims as a landmark achievement of the present administration in the country.
According to him, the administration must take security seriously, as there can be no meaningful development in an atmosphere of insecurity.
“As a follow-up to this development, the government must ensure that all the communities that share a border with the National Park are fully secure.
“Also, the government must ensure the proper rehabilitation of the victims, so as to heal them from the trauma and psychological stress they have undergone while in captivity,” he said.
The revered traditional ruler commended Gov. Seyi Makinde for standing by the victims and their relations during their moment of trial.
He also commended the security operatives, the Chief of Defence Staff, the Inspector-General of Police, and the leadership of other security agencies for the determination and unwavering commitment which led to the safe release of the victims.
NAN
