Oyo honours fallen civilians, security personnel after Oriire school rescue

By Adejayan Gbenga

The Oyo State Government has paid tribute to civilians and security personnel who lost their lives during the abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area, describing them as heroes whose sacrifices made the successful rescue of the victims possible.

In a memorial message shared on its official X handle on Wednesday, the government expressed gratitude for the safe return of the abducted pupils and teachers while extending condolences to the families of those who died during the attack and subsequent rescue operation.

While noting that the successful rescue brought relief to residents across the state, the government said the development also served as a painful reminder of the lives lost during the incident. It pledged continued support for the bereaved families and reaffirmed its commitment to standing by them.

The government also said it would continue to honour the memory of those who paid the ultimate price in the line of duty and during the tragic incident. It prayed for the peaceful repose of their souls and for strength and comfort for their loved ones.

As part of the memorial, the government released an “In Memoriam” list of civilians who died during the Ahoro-Esinle and Yawota abduction incident in Oriire Local Government Area. Those honoured were Mr Michael Oyedokun, Deacon John Olaleye, Mr Joel Adesiyan and Mr Oluwasegun Akanni.

Similarly, the state honoured security personnel who lost their lives during the rescue operation. Those listed were Lieutenant F. A. Isaac, Mr Adigun Saibu, Mr Isa Saliu, Mr Rafiu Ayuba and an unnamed soldier. The government said their bravery and dedication contributed significantly to the successful rescue of the abducted pupils and teachers, adding that their sacrifices would never be forgotten.

The victims regained their freedom after spending about 57 days in captivity following a coordinated rescue operation by security agencies. They were abducted during the May 15 attack on schools in Oriire Local Government Area, an incident that sparked widespread concern across Oyo State.

Meanwhile, two teachers, Mr Michael Oyedokun and Mr Esiyan Adegboye, were killed during the attack. While Adegboye’s body was recovered shortly after the incident and buried, Oyedokun’s remains have yet to be found despite repeated appeals by his family. The family has urged President Bola Tinubu, Governor Seyi Makinde and security agencies to intensify efforts to recover his body for a befitting burial, as the state reiterated that the sacrifices of the deceased civilians and security personnel would continue to be remembered as symbols of courage, patriotism and service.