The Presidency has disclosed that the schoolchildren and teachers rescued from captivity in Oriire community, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, will remain under medical observation for 48 hours before they are formally handed over to the Oyo State Government.

Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, disclosed this while responding to inquiries on whether and when the rescued victims would be presented to President Bola Tinubu.
According to Onanuga, information from the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) indicated that the victims were undergoing medical examinations and would be handed over to Governor Seyi Makinde after the assessment.

“The children are still undergoing medical examination. They will thereafter be handed over to Oyo Governor Makinde,” he said.

Governor Makinde confirmed the development during a visit to the rescued pupils and teachers at the Headquarters of the 2 Division Nigerian Army Medical Services, Odogbo Barracks, Ibadan, where they are currently receiving treatment following their rescue.

The governor described the victims’ release as a moment of relief and thanksgiving for the state, expressing gratitude to God for their safe return after weeks in captivity.

“Today is a day of gratitude to Almighty God. We are thankful that these innocent children and their teachers have regained their freedom after enduring a traumatic experience. This is indeed a huge relief, not only for their families but for every resident of Oyo State who has been praying and hoping for this day,” Makinde said.

He commended the Nigerian Army, other security agencies and all personnel involved in the rescue operation for what he described as their courage, professionalism and unwavering commitment to securing the victims’ freedom.

“Our security agencies have demonstrated remarkable courage and resilience throughout this operation.

Their professionalism and determination made this successful outcome possible, and the people of Oyo State remain deeply grateful for their sacrifices and dedication,” he added.

Makinde, however, noted that the successful operation came at a heavy cost, revealing that some security personnel lost their lives during the mission.

“Our joy today is tempered by the painful reality that some of our brave security personnel paid the ultimate price in the course of this operation. We mourn their loss, extend our heartfelt condolences to their families, and assure them that their sacrifices will never be forgotten. These heroes laid down their lives in service to our nation, and we owe them an enduring debt of gratitude,” the governor said.

He added that the state government would ensure the fallen security operatives and other civilians who died in connection with the operation were appropriately honoured.

Speaking on the condition of the rescued victims, Makinde said many of the pupils and teachers appeared physically weak and emotionally affected by their ordeal, stressing that they would require comprehensive medical care, counselling and rehabilitation.

“Freedom is the first step, but recovery is equally important. While the children and teachers are understandably happy to be reunited with their loved ones, some of them are physically weak and emotionally affected by their ordeal.

“They will receive the best medical care, counselling and rehabilitation necessary to help them recover fully,” he said.
The governor explained that military medical authorities had advised that the victims remain under observation for 48 hours before any formal handover.

“The military authorities have advised that they remain under observation for the next 48 hours. At the end of that period, a proper assessment will be conducted to determine their medical and psychological condition before they are formally handed over to the Oyo State government for further care and rehabilitation. We fully support this professional approach because the well-being of these children and their teachers remains our highest priority,” he stated.

Makinde also disclosed that arrangements were being made to allow family members to visit the rescued victims at the military medical facility in a controlled environment.
According to him, one of the rescued girls had repeatedly requested to see her mother since regaining her freedom.

“We understand the emotional needs of these children. One of the young girls has consistently asked for her mother, and we are already making arrangements to reunite families in a controlled environment that will also safeguard the medical and emotional recovery process,” he said.