Oyo Govt Takes Charge of Rescued Teachers, Pupils After 56-Day Ordeal

Following the formal handover of the rescued Oriire teachers and pupils to the Oyo State Government, Governor 'Seyi Makinde has assured that the state will take full responsibility for their welfare and well-being until they are fully stabilised. This comes after the victims spent 56 days in captivity. The governor made this declaration at the Government House in Ibadan, where the military officially handed over the rescued individuals to the state government. Makinde expressed his gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for his intervention and to the leadership of Nigeria's security agencies for their role in coordinating the rescue operation. He stated that the state government would work closely with the affected school to provide immediate medical, psychological, and logistical support to the victims and their families. The governor also commended the security agencies for their collaboration, which led to the successful rescue of the teachers and pupils. One of the rescued teachers, Mrs Rachael Alamu, shared her harrowing experience, recounting how they were forced to walk and ride bicycles through uncharted paths. She also expressed her apprehension about returning to work in a rural area after the traumatic experience. The Oyo State Government has assured the victims that it will do everything possible to ensure that their education and careers are not disrupted. The Chief Medical Director has briefed the governor on the progress of the medical assessments, and it is expected that the victims will be discharged after 24 to 48 hours of medical observation. The governor has also announced that parents will be allowed to access their children once they are medically fit. The rescue operation was successful after 56 days, with the victims eventually regaining their freedom on July 10, 2026. The event was attended by several dignitaries, including the Oyo State Deputy Governor, Bayo Lawal, and the Oyo State Commissioner of Police, CP Abimbola Olugbenga. The governor's declaration has brought relief to the families of the rescued teachers and pupils, who can now begin the process of healing and recovery.