Oriire Assembly Member, Ogundele, Others In Ogbomoso Celebrate as 56-Day Kidnap Ordeal Ends for Pupils, Teachers

Residents of Ogbomoso, Oyo State, erupted in wild celebrations on Friday following the safe return of pupils and teachers who spent 56 days in captivity after being abducted by armed bandits.

Scenes across the town showed people dancing in the streets, singing songs of thanksgiving, embracing one another, and praising God as news of the victims’ release spread.

The victims were kidnapped on May 15, 2026, during coordinated attacks on three schools in Oriire Local Government Area. Dozens of pupils and teachers were taken into the forest by heavily armed gunmen.

According to the Presidency, the victims were rescued in a coordinated operation involving Nigerian security agencies. Eight suspected kidnappers were arrested, while several others were reportedly neutralized during the operation. 

The Presidency added that the rescue was carried out without any concession to the kidnappers’ demands.

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, also confirmed the safe return of the victims. In a statement on X, he said: 

“Our priority now is to ensure they are reunited with their families and support their rehabilitation after this traumatic experience. We also commend the security agencies that took part in the rescue operations for their sacrifices. May the souls of those who paid the ultimate price rest in peace and may God comfort their families.”

Speaking to _MOUTHPIECE NGR_ on Friday evening, the lawmaker representing state Assembly, Hon. Ogundele, said he was overjoyed that “his people are finally back.”

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

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

The lawmaker congratulated teachers, learners, parents, school administrators and education stakeholders, saying their collective faith and resilience had been rewarded.

Ogundele also expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Makinde for their commitment to the rescue efforts. He commended security agencies for their professionalism and sacrifices, saying their courage led to the successful rescue.

He specifically lauded Governor Makinde for “purposeful leadership” and for deploying resources to secure the release of the children despite criticism during the 56 days they were held.

The lawmaker further appreciated religious leaders, traditional rulers, civil society organizations, community leaders, media practitioners and Nigerians who supported the families through prayers and advocacy.

The rescue has brought immense relief to families, residents and Nigerians who followed the tragic incident over the past several weeks.