Makinde Denies Paying Ransom for Freed Oyo Pupils, Teachers
By Mohammed Ibrahim Abdullahi
Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has dismissed claims that the state government paid ransom to secure the release of pupils and teachers abducted from schools in Oriire Local Government Area, insisting that the victims regained their freedom through coordinated security operations.
The governor, while reacting to reports suggesting that money was paid to the kidnappers, described the claims as false and misleading.
He maintained that the successful rescue was achieved through the combined efforts of security agencies without any financial concession to the abductors.
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Makinde expressed appreciation to the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services and other security agencies for their professionalism and commitment throughout the rescue operation.
He also commended President Bola Tinubu for supporting the mission, noting that the Federal Government ensured that all necessary resources were deployed to facilitate the safe return of the victims.
The governor said the release of the pupils and teachers, who had spent nearly two months in captivity following their abduction during an attack on schools in Oriire Local Government Area, brought relief to their families, residents and other concerned Nigerians.
According to him, the successful operation underscores the importance of collaboration among security agencies in tackling kidnapping and other forms of criminality.
Makinde assured residents that his administration would continue to strengthen collaboration with security agencies to improve safety across the state and prevent a recurrence of such incidents.
He added that the welfare, medical care and rehabilitation of the rescued pupils and teachers would remain a priority of the state government as they reunite with their families and recover from the trauma of their ordeal.
