Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has said the 44 pupils and teachers rescued from kidnappers after spending 56 days in captivity will remain under medical observation for 48 hours before being handed over to the state government for rehabilitation.
Makinde disclosed this on Saturday after visiting the rescued victims at the Headquarters of the 2 Division Nigerian Army Medical Services, Odogbo Barracks, Ibadan, where they are receiving medical treatment following their rescue.
The governor described the successful operation as a moment of relief and gratitude for the state, while commending the Nigerian Army and other security agencies for securing the victims’ freedom.
According to him, the rescued victims, comprising 39 pupils and five teachers, will undergo medical evaluation before further rehabilitation begins.
“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,” Makinde said.
He noted that although the victims were excited to regain their freedom, many appeared physically exhausted and would require medical attention as well as psychosocial support to recover from the trauma of their prolonged captivity.
“Some of them appear physically weak and will require medical care and psychosocial support to overcome the post-traumatic experiences of their ordeal,” he added.
Makinde also revealed that arrangements had commenced to reunite the rescued victims with their families at the military facility, disclosing that one of the rescued girls had repeatedly requested to see her mother since regaining freedom.
The governor, however, said the rescue operation came at a heavy cost, disclosing that some security personnel lost their lives during the operation.
He condoled with the bereaved families, assuring them that the sacrifices of the fallen operatives would not be forgotten.
“The rescue operation came with sacrifices. Some security operatives paid the supreme price while carrying out the mission,” he said.
Makinde urged Nigerians to remain united in confronting the nation’s security challenges, stressing that periods of adversity should strengthen national solidarity rather than create divisions.
He also announced that he would brief residents of Oyo State and Nigerians next week on the circumstances surrounding the abduction and the coordinated efforts that led to the successful rescue of the pupils and teachers.
The victims were abducted 56 days ago before security forces eventually secured their release in an operation involving the military and other security agencies.
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