Oyo Lawmaker Ogundele Hails Safe Release of Abducted Oriire Pupils, Teachers

..Thanks Gov. Makinde, Security Agencies, NUT, Religious, Traditional, Community Leaders, Others

The lawmaker representing Oriire State Constituency in the Oyo State House of Assembly, Hon. Ogundele Johnson, has expressed profound joy over the safe release of pupils and teachers abducted from Ahoro-Esinele Community in Oriire Local Government Area on May 15, 2026.

He described their freedom as a significant relief for their families, Oriire Communities, and the entire people of Oyo State.

In a statement made available to journalists on Friday, Ogundele thanked Almighty God for preserving the lives of the victims throughout their ordeal.

He noted that their return has brought great relief and happiness to the affected families and communities, and is a cause for thanksgiving across the education sector in the state.

He said the development has also brought immense joy to families, colleagues, classmates, and all those who stood in prayers and hope throughout the period of captivity.

The lawmaker congratulated teachers, learners, parents, school administrators, education stakeholders, and lovers of education across Oyo State, noting that their collective faith, resilience, and unwavering hope had been rewarded with the good news of the victims’ release.

Ogundele also expressed profound appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Seyi Makinde for their commitment and support throughout the rescue efforts.

He commended security agencies for their professionalism, dedication, and sacrifices, saying their courage and patriotism led to the successful rescue of the teachers and pupils.

While specifically lauding Governor Makinde, Ogundele said the governor demonstrated purposeful leadership by leaving no stone unturned to secure the safe release of the innocent children, despite criticism, during the 56 days they were held in captivity.

He added that the resources deployed by the governor to facilitate the rescue deserve commendation.

The lawmaker further appreciated religious leaders, traditional rulers, civil society organisations, community leaders, media practitioners, and all well-meaning Nigerians who supported the affected families through prayers, advocacy, and encouragement during the difficult period.

According to Ogundele, the professionalism, resilience, and unwavering commitment demonstrated by security agencies including Amotekun, local hunters, DSS, Police, and the Army, underscore the importance of collaboration in addressing security challenges and protecting innocent lives.

While celebrating the victims’ safe return, Ogundele stressed the need for sustained efforts to strengthen security across communities, particularly around educational institutions, to safeguard pupils, teachers, and residents from criminal activities.

He said: “The safety of our children and teachers must remain a collective responsibility and a top priority for all stakeholders. We must continue to support measures that will enhance intelligence gathering, improve community policing, and guarantee a secure learning environment across Oyo State.”

Ogundele however prayed for the full physical, emotional, and psychological recovery of the rescued pupils and teachers, expressing optimism that they would overcome the trauma of their experience.

He reaffirmed his commitment to supporting policies and legislative initiatives aimed at strengthening security and promoting the welfare of residents, while urging citizens to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies to sustain peace and stability across Oyo State.