The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, has congratulated Nigerians on the successful rescue of teachers, pupils and students abducted by terrorists in Oyo State, describing their safe return as a welcome end to a tragic episode.
The Speaker also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for providing leadership throughout the rescue efforts and praised Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde for his cooperation with the Federal Government and security agencies during the operation.
Abbas lauded the Armed Forces, paramilitary agencies, intelligence services and other security outfits for their role in securing the victims’ freedom, noting that the successful operation has strengthened public confidence in the nation’s security architecture.
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He said the widespread jubilation that greeted the announcement of the rescue reflected Nigerians’ renewed faith in the capacity of security agencies to protect lives and confront criminal elements.
The Speaker noted that the relief extended beyond the families and communities directly affected, as many Nigerians had shared in the pain and anxiety caused by the abduction.
He called for intensified efforts to safeguard schools and other public institutions that may be vulnerable to terrorist attacks, while urging security agencies to sustain operations aimed at securing the release of other Nigerians still being held captive across the country.
Abbas also reaffirmed the commitment of the House of Representatives to supporting legislative measures that will enhance national security, protect lives and property, and safeguard the country’s territorial integrity.
The victims were abducted on May 15, 2026, when terrorists simultaneously attacked Community Grammar School, Ahoro-Esiele, and Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, both in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
The attackers kidnapped 39 pupils and students, as well as seven teachers. A teacher was shot dead during the attack, while another was reportedly beheaded days later.
Following a 56-day ordeal, the Presidency announced the successful rescue of the victims on Friday.
The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, disclosed that eight suspected kidnappers were arrested during the operation, while several others were neutralised.
