Military Hands Over 44 Rescued Oriire School Abductees to Governor Makinde
The Nigerian military has officially handed over the 44 pupils and staff rescued from captivity in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State to Governor Seyi Makinde, marking the successful conclusion of a major rescue operation that lasted several weeks.
The victims were freed during a coordinated security operation involving the Armed Forces and other security agencies after spending more than 50 days in captivity following their abduction from a school in Oriire.
During the handover ceremony, military authorities reaffirmed their commitment to protecting lives and property, stating that the successful rescue reflected the effectiveness of joint security operations against criminal elements operating across the country.
Governor Makinde expressed profound appreciation to the Nigerian Armed Forces, security agencies, local vigilantes and all stakeholders who participated in the operation. He commended the professionalism, courage and sacrifice displayed by the rescue team, noting that their efforts brought hope and relief to the affected families and the people of Oyo State.
The governor also assured residents that his administration would continue to strengthen collaboration with security agencies to improve safety and prevent future attacks on schools and communities.
The rescued victims are expected to receive medical attention, trauma counselling and other necessary support to aid their recovery and reintegration into society.
The successful rescue has been widely applauded as a significant breakthrough in the fight against kidnapping and insecurity, while renewing calls for sustained intelligence gathering and stronger security measures to protect schools and vulnerable communities across Nigeria.
