The Oyo State Government has confirmed that the pupils and teachers abducted in Oriire Local Government Area have regained their freedom, calling it a major success in its fight against kidnapping and other violent crimes.
The Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, made the announcement in a statement on Friday. He expressed relief that the victims were released 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 said the rescue showed the state’s determination to tackle criminal activities. He said the government stood by its decision not to pay ransom, despite pressure to negotiate with the kidnappers.
According to him, Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration refused to take what he described as the “quick-fix” option of paying ransom, saying such a move would only encourage kidnapping and give criminal gangs more confidence.
He said the government’s position showed its commitment to lasting solutions to insecurity instead of actions that could strengthen the activities of kidnappers and bandits.
The commissioner also said the administration would keep working with security agencies to protect lives and property across the state while continuing efforts to end kidnapping and other criminal acts.
He restated the government’s commitment to protecting residents and preserving peace, assuring the people of Oyo State that tackling insecurity would remain a top priority.
