The Oyo State Government has confirmed the release of the pupils and teachers abducted in Oriire Local Government Area, describing their freedom as a major breakthrough in its efforts to combat kidnapping and other violent crimes.
The Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, announced the development in a statement issued on Friday, expressing gratitude that the victims had regained their freedom after spending weeks in captivity.
“We are happy to report to the people of Oyo State that our children and teachers in Oriire have been released from captivity,” the commissioner said.
Oyelade described the successful rescue as a test of the state’s resolve against criminal elements, noting that the government remained steadfast in its policy of rejecting ransom payments despite mounting pressure to negotiate with the abductors.
According to him, Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration chose not to adopt what he described as the “quick-fix” approach of paying ransom, insisting that such actions would only encourage kidnapping and embolden criminal gangs.
He said the government’s decision reflected its commitment to pursuing sustainable strategies to address insecurity rather than measures that could strengthen the operations of kidnappers and bandits.
The commissioner added that the administration would continue to work closely with security agencies to ensure the safety of lives and property across the state while sustaining efforts to eliminate kidnapping and other forms of criminality.
He reiterated the government’s determination to protect residents and maintain peace, assuring the people of Oyo State that the fight against insecurity would remain a top priority.
