By Desire Emmanuel
Oyo State governor, Seyi Makinde, on Saturday, July 11, said the teachers and students from Oriire Local Government Area who were rescued on Friday would remain under medical observation for 48 hours before they are handed over by the military authorities to the Oyo State government.
The governor disclosed this when he visited the rescued victims at the Nigerian Army Medical Services and Hospital, Odogbo Barracks, Ibadan, where they are currently receiving treatment.
Makinde described the victims’ release as a moment of joy and thanksgiving for the state, expressing gratitude to God and commending the Nigerian Army and other security agencies for their role in securing the victims’ freedom.
Makinde said: “Today is a day of joy and gratitude for us in Oyo State. We thank God that these children and their teachers have regained their freedom. I also want to appreciate the Nigerian Army and all the security agencies that worked tirelessly to make this rescue possible.”
He, however, noted that the operation came at a cost, revealing that some security personnel lost their lives during the rescue mission.
“Some of our brave security operatives paid the supreme price in the course of this operation. We extend our heartfelt condolences to their families and assure them that the sacrifices of these heroes will never be forgotten,” he said.
Speaking on the condition of the rescued victims, the governor said they were delighted to regain their freedom but appeared physically weak after spending weeks in captivity.
He explained that medical personnel were carrying out comprehensive assessments while psychosocial support would also be provided to help them recover from the trauma of the experience.
“The children and their teachers are happy to be free, but some of them are understandably weak and will require medical attention and psychosocial support.
“They will remain here for the next 48 hours for proper observation and assessment before they are formally transferred from the military authorities to the Oyo State government,” he said.
Makinde also revealed that arrangements were underway to allow family members visit the victims at the military hospital, noting that one of the rescued pupils had repeatedly asked to see her mother.
