Alaafin visits rescued Oriire pupils, teachers, donates cash gifts

By Adejayan Gbenga

The Alaafin of Oyo, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I, on Monday visited pupils and teachers rescued from captivity following the Oriire school abduction, donating cash gifts to the victims and commending the Nigerian Armed Forces for their role in securing their freedom.

The monarch’s visit was disclosed in a statement issued by his Director of Media and Publicity, Bode Durojaiye. According to the statement, Oba Owoade met the rescued victims at the Headquarters of the 2 Division Nigerian Army Medical Services, Odogbo Military Cantonment, Ojoo, Ibadan, where they received medical treatment and psychological support before being handed over to the Oyo State Government.

During the visit, the Alaafin praised the Nigerian Armed Forces and other security agencies for their courage, professionalism and sustained commitment to combating terrorism, kidnapping and other security threats across the country. He described the successful rescue of the Oriire pupils and teachers as proof that intelligence-led operations and coordinated security efforts were producing positive results.

In addition, Oba Owoade presented cash gifts to the rescued pupils and teachers as a gesture of compassion and encouragement. He also interacted with the victims, offering prayers and words of comfort while urging them not to allow their traumatic experience to define their future.

The traditional ruler further appealed to Nigerians to support security agencies by providing timely and credible information. According to him, lasting peace and security can only be achieved through collaboration among the government, security agencies, traditional institutions and local communities.

Meanwhile, the Alaafin applauded fellow traditional rulers for their prayers, concern and contributions during the period the victims remained in captivity. He noted that traditional institutions continue to play a vital role in promoting peace, security and community development across the country.

The rescued pupils and teachers had spent several weeks in captivity before regaining their freedom through a coordinated security operation. Following their rescue, they underwent medical examinations, psychological evaluation and psychosocial support at the Nigerian Army medical facility in Ibadan before being released to the state government.

The Oyo State Government has since assured the victims of continued support, including measures to facilitate the pupils’ return to school without disruption. Oba Owoade also expressed optimism that the rescued pupils and teachers would recover fully from the ordeal and rebuild their lives with renewed hope.