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Jubilation spread across communities in Oyo State on Friday night after schoolchildren and their teachers abducted in Oriire regained their freedom after more than 50 days in captivity.
The victims, comprising 39 pupils and seven teachers, including the school principal, Alamu Folawe, were rescued during a coordinated operation involving the military, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Police Force.
A resident of Ogbomoso, Akinkunmi Oyelade, said he initially doubted reports of their release.
“I didn’t believe it at first, but when I saw scores of commercial motorcyclists and travellers stopping their vehicles to celebrate and praise God, I knew the news was true,” he told Punch.
Another resident, Kemi Adeniyi, expressed joy over the development but called for the prosecution of those responsible for the abduction.
“I am more than delighted with this great news. However, what happens to those who kept our family members for almost two months? Are they still alive, or were they neutralised by the security operatives?” Adeniyi asked.
“We need an update on that. They must not go unpunished. I hope neither the Federal nor the State Government plans to grant them amnesty. There should be no room for impunity.”
A civil servant, who requested anonymity, said he planned to give a thanksgiving testimony at church on Sunday because one of the rescued pupils is a close friend’s child.
“We’re going to celebrate tonight because one of my friend’s children was among those abducted,” he said.
“On Sunday, I will give a testimony in church. My friend kept asking if he would ever see his child again, but I always encouraged him to remain calm and keep faith. I’m grateful the child has finally returned home.”
According to Nigerian President Bola Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, eight suspected members of the kidnapping gang were arrested and are currently in DSS custody, while several others were neutralised during the operation.
Onanuga added that no ransom or concession was made to secure the victims’ release, noting that the gang leader whose release had been demanded by the kidnappers remains in custody and is facing prosecution.
