Ebenezer Adurokiya, Reporting
THE rescue of pupils and teachers in Orire Local Government Area has come as a “big relief” after 57 agonising days, Governor Seyi Makinde has said.
In a brief telephone interview with Channels TV’s Politics Today shortly after the news broke on Friday, the Oyo State Governor expressed his profound gratitude to President Bola Tinubu and security agencies for their relentless efforts in securing the victims’ freedom.
“It’s such a big relief for all of us and for those waiting for this past 57 days… I’m just right now overjoyed and I cannot say much,” Mr Makinde said, his voice laden with emotion.
The Governor was quick to acknowledge the collaborative efforts that led to the breakthrough, extending his thanks to the nation’s security apparatus.
“We’ll use the opportunity to say thank you to our service commanders, the Nigerian Police, the DSS, the military and the high command and, of course, the President, for pushing really hard to have this done,” he added.
The Presidency had earlier confirmed the successful rescue operation. Special Adviser Bayo Onanuga disclosed that eight kidnappers had been apprehended and were now in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS).
He further revealed that several other members of the gang had been neutralised during the operation.
Crucially, Mr Onanuga confirmed that no ransom was paid, and no prisoner swap took place, despite the kidnappers having demanded the release of a detained terrorist kingpin.
In a video shared by the Presidency, one of the rescued victims expressed gratitude to President Tinubu and the security operatives, saying: “We are grateful, Mr President… We could see it in your heart.”
The ordeal, which has gripped the state for nearly two months, has finally come to a close, bringing an end to the anxious wait for families and the wider community. The ordeal is finally over.
