Governor Seyi Makinde has revealed that the pupils and teachers rescued after spending nearly two months in the hands of kidnappers will remain in military custody temporarily as they receive medical attention and undergo routine profiling.
The governor made the disclosure on Saturday after visiting the victims at the 2 Division Medical Centre, Odogbo Barracks, Ibadan, where they are currently receiving treatment following their rescue.
Makinde said the victims would remain under close medical observation for the next 48 hours before any decision is made on reuniting them with their families.
According to him, many of the rescued children and teachers are still physically weak after enduring 56 days in captivity and require urgent medical intervention before they can safely return home.
“I’m extremely happy that the children and their teachers are back,” the governor said.
“We will monitor them over the next 48 hours. Some of them are still very frail and need medical intervention, and that will be addressed.”
Makinde disclosed that a comprehensive medical assessment has been scheduled for Monday, after which the Nigerian military is expected to formally hand the rescued victims over to the Oyo State Government.
56 Days In Captivity
The rescue brings an end to a traumatic ordeal that began on May 15, 2026, when heavily armed bandits invaded three schools in the Ahoro-Esiele and Yawota communities of Oriire Local Government Area, abducting 39 pupils and six teachers.
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The attack turned tragic after the kidnappers reportedly beheaded one of the teachers during the assault, while another victim later died during the 56 days spent in captivity.
The remaining pupils and teachers were eventually rescued in a security operation, bringing relief to their families and the state after weeks of uncertainty and anxiety.
Governor Makinde assured residents that the state government would continue to provide the victims with the medical, psychological and welfare support needed to aid their recovery before they are reunited with their loved ones.