There was widespread celebration in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State on Friday as 39 abducted pupils and seven teachers regained their freedom after spending weeks in captivity.
The victims, who included the principal of one of the affected schools, Mrs. Rachael Alamu, were rescued by security operatives following a coordinated operation involving multiple security agencies.
Moments after regaining her freedom, Mrs. Alamu expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu and the security agencies for securing the safe rescue of all the abducted victims.
In a video recorded after the rescue, the visibly relieved principal thanked the President for his intervention and commended the efforts of the security personnel who carried out the operation.
The rescue sparked jubilation across Oriire Local Government Area, where residents poured onto the streets to celebrate the return of the victims. Videos shared online showed community members cheering as military personnel drove through the area in a convoy with the rescued pupils and teachers.
The victims had been abducted during coordinated attacks on three schools in Oriire Local Government Area, an incident that drew national attention and heightened concerns over insecurity in schools.
Their rescue marks the end of weeks of uncertainty for families and residents, who had repeatedly appealed to the government and security agencies to ensure the safe return of the captives.
Security authorities are expected to provide further details on the operation, including the condition of the rescued victims and the fate of those responsible for the abduction.