Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has formally taken custody of the pupils and teachers rescued from kidnappers in Oriire Local Government Area, assuring them that the state government will take full responsibility for their welfare, education and rehabilitation as they reunite with their families.
The rescued victims were officially handed over to the Oyo State Government by the Nigerian military on Monday after completing a 48-hour period of medical observation, treatment and psychological evaluation at the Headquarters of the 2 Division Nigerian Army Medical Services, Odogbo Barracks, Ibadan.
Speaking during the handover ceremony, Governor Makinde pledged that his administration would ensure the traumatic experience endured by the victims would not hinder their education, careers or future aspirations.
“As a government, we will support every one of you. We will do everything necessary to protect the education of the pupils and the careers of the teachers so that this unfortunate incident will not define your future,” the governor said.
Makinde directed that the rescued pupils and teachers be reunited with their families, describing the reunions as a critical step towards their emotional healing after spending 56 days in captivity.
He further assured that the state government would continue to provide comprehensive medical, psychological and educational support to aid their full recovery and reintegration into society.
“We will take responsibility for the teachers and the pupils going forward, even as they reunite with their families. Our commitment is to ensure they recover fully and return to normal life with the support they deserve,” he added.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to sustained rehabilitation efforts, noting that the government would continue to monitor and support the victims beyond their return home.
The formal transfer of custody from the Nigerian military to the Oyo State Government marks another significant milestone in the recovery process and offers renewed hope to families and residents of Ogbomoso and surrounding communities following the safe return of their loved ones after nearly two months in captivity.
