[PHOTOS]: Rescued Oyo pupils, teachers to remain under medical observation for 48 hours — Makinde

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has said the safe rescue of the teachers and pupils held captive by bandits for 56 days is a moment of gratitude and relief for the state.

The governor said the rescued pupils and teachers would remain under observation for 48 hours.

“The rescued victims will remain under medical observation for the next 48 hours, after which an assessment will be conducted before their formal transfer from military authorities to the Oyo State Government for further management and rehabilitation,” he said.

The governor spoke on Saturday after visiting the rescued pupils and teachers, who are receiving medical attention at the Headquarters of the 2 Division Nigerian Army Medical Services, Odogbo Barracks, Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, following their release from captivity.

“All 39 pupils and five of the seven abducted teachers had been rescued and reunited with security personnel, giving glory to God and commending officers and men of the Nigerian Army and other security agencies for their efforts in securing the victims’ freedom,” the governor said.

“The rescue operation came with sacrifices,” Makinde added, revealing that, “some security operatives lost their lives during the operation.”

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The governor extended condolences to the bereaved families, assuring them that the sacrifices of their loved ones would not be in vain.

Speaking on the condition of the rescued victims, the governor disclosed that the pupils and teachers were happy to regain their freedom. “Some of them appear physically weak, and will require medical care and psychosocial support to overcome post-traumatic experiences from their prolonged captivity,” he said.

Makinde also disclosed that arrangements were being made to bring family members to the barracks to see their loved ones, particularly noting the case of a young girl who had repeatedly asked for her mother since regaining her freedom.

He urged Nigerians to remain united in the face of security challenges, stressing that, “difficult periods should serve as moments for collective action rather than division.”

Makinde added that he would officially brief the people of Oyo State and Nigerians in the coming week on the circumstances surrounding the abduction and the efforts that culminated in the successful rescue of the victims.