Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo state has said that he is overjoyed following the rescue of pupils and teachers abducted in Oriire LGA of the state.
The victims regained their freedom on Friday after spending 56 days in captivity, following a coordinated operation involving the military, the Department of State Services (DSS) and the police.
Speaking with Channels Television shortly after the rescue, Makinde described the development as a huge relief for the state.
He thanked President Bola Tinubu for pushing for their release.
“It is such a big relief for all of us. Just right now, I am overjoyed and can hardly say much,” the governor said.
“I use this opportunity to say a big thank you to all the service commands, the police, DSS, military and, of course, the president for pushing for their release.”
On May 15, gunmen attacked Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota; Community Grammar School, Esiele; and LA Primary School in Ogbomoso, all in Oriire LGA.
The sad incident prompted the Oyo state government to shut schools in four LGAs as security agencies intensified rescue efforts.
Protests were organised in some parts of the country to demand the rescue of the abducted schoolchildren.
On May 18, Makinde said one of the teachers abducted during the attack was killed in captivity.
