Seyi Makinde, the Governor of Oyo State, has identified the eight individuals who lost their lives during efforts to secure the release of pupils and teachers abducted in Oriire Local Government Area of the state.
The governor made the disclosure while reflecting on the successful return of the victims after 56 days in captivity.
He said the state was relieved that the abducted pupils and teachers were rescued alive, but noted that the joy was overshadowed by the loss of lives recorded during the crisis.
Makinde described those who died as heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice in the struggle to bring the victims back home safely. He said their courage and dedication would remain a lasting part of the state’s history.
Among those named by the governor were three teachers connected to the incident. They are Mr Joel Adeshiyan, who was reportedly killed on the day the attackers stormed the school, Mr John Olaleye, who died while being held captive, and Mr Michael Oyedokun, whose death in the hands of the kidnappers attracted national attention after a video linked to the incident circulated widely.
The governor also paid tribute to five security personnel who lost their lives during rescue operations carried out to secure the release of the abducted victims.
The officers identified include Lieutenant Isaac, Mr Adigun Suibu, Mr Isa Saliu, Mr Rafiu Ayuba and another soldier who died while participating in efforts to track down the abductors and rescue those in captivity.
Makinde said the fallen teachers and security operatives demonstrated exceptional bravery in the face of danger. According to him, their sacrifices contributed significantly to the eventual rescue of the victims.
He expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and urged residents of the state to remember them in their prayers.
The governor noted that while the successful rescue operation brought relief to many families, the state could not ignore the painful losses suffered during the period.
“Even as we rejoice, our relief is tempered by profound sorrow. We mourn the tragic loss of lives in the course of this unfortunate incident. We pray that Almighty God grants them eternal rest,” the governor said.
Makinde assured residents that his administration remains committed to improving security across Oyo State. He said the government would continue to strengthen collaboration with security agencies to tackle criminal activities and prevent similar incidents in the future.
He added that protecting lives and property remains a top priority of his administration, stressing that lessons learned from the incident would help shape future security responses across the state.
The abduction had generated widespread concern within and outside Oyo State, with many Nigerians closely following developments throughout the period the victims were held captive. The eventual rescue of the pupils and teachers brought an end to weeks of anxiety for their families and communities.
The governor maintained that the memories of those who lost their lives during the operation would be honoured, adding that their service and sacrifice would not be forgotten by the state or the nation.
Recall Politics Nigeria earlier reported that the abducted pupils and teachers regained their freedom after spending 56 days in captivity.
