The Soun of Ogbomosoland, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, has described the testimonies of the recently rescued pupils and teachers abducted in Oyo State as heartbreaking, revealing that the victims endured unimaginable hardship during their more than 50-day captivity in the hands of kidnappers.
The monarch made the remarks after leading a delegation to the Ojoo Military Cantonment in Ibadan, where the rescued pupils and teachers are currently receiving medical care following their release through a coordinated military operation.
Oba Olaoye was accompanied on the visit by the Alaajawa of Ajaawa, Oba Thompson Adeyeye Oyetunji; the Onisapa of Isapa, Oba Bolarinwa Ezekiel Olajide; and Senator Fatai Buhari. The delegation was received by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) and other senior military officers, who briefed them on the successful rescue operation and the condition of the victims.
Speaking after interacting with the rescued pupils and teachers, the monarch said the accounts of their ordeal were emotionally overwhelming and underscored the urgent need for stronger security around schools and communities.
According to Oba Olaoye, “Listening to their testimonies was deeply emotional. Their account of life in the bush revealed the unimaginable hardship they endured.”
The traditional ruler disclosed that one of the most disturbing revelations from the survivors was that the male teachers were allegedly kept blindfolded and chained throughout their captivity, while enduring harsh and degrading conditions in the forest.
He also lamented the brutal killing of one of the abducted teachers, describing the incident as a painful reminder of the cruelty of criminal elements operating in parts of the country.
“Particularly heartbreaking was the revelation that the male teachers were kept chained and blindfolded throughout their captivity and the gruesome killing of one of the teachers. No human being deserves such cruel and inhumane treatment at the hands of evil,” the monarch said.
Despite the painful experience, Oba Olaoye said the successful rescue of the pupils and teachers remained a testimony of divine intervention and the resilience of the nation’s security agencies.
“Today, however, we choose gratitude over grief. Their safe return is a powerful reminder that God still answers prayers. We give Him all the glory for preserving their lives and bringing them back to their families and loved ones,” he stated.
The Soun added that all the rescued children and teachers are currently receiving medical attention and appropriate care, expressing optimism that they would recover fully from the physical and emotional trauma they experienced during the weeks spent in captivity.
He commended the Federal Government, the Oyo State Government, the Nigerian Armed Forces and other security agencies for their commitment to securing the release of the victims.
Expressing appreciation to all those involved in the operation, the monarch said, “I express my profound appreciation to the Federal and State Governments, the Nigerian Armed Forces, all security agencies, and every individual whose unwavering commitment and sacrifice contributed to this successful outcome. Your courage and dedication continue to inspire hope.”
Oba Olaoye also used the opportunity to remember other Nigerians who remain in the custody of kidnappers across different parts of the country, urging citizens not to forget them in their prayers.
He called for sustained efforts by security agencies to ensure the safe return of all victims still in captivity, while praying for comfort for families affected by insecurity.
“As we celebrate this answered prayer, let us continue to remember those who remain in captivity across our nation and pray earnestly for their safe return. May the Almighty comfort every family that has experienced the pain of insecurity and strengthen all those working tirelessly to restore peace,” he said.
The monarch further prayed for lasting peace across Ogbomosoland and Nigeria, expressing hope that communities in the region would never again witness such a tragic incident.
“It is my heartfelt prayer that Ogbomosoland will never experience such sorrow. May God continue to preserve our land, protect our people, and establish lasting peace and security throughout our communities,” he added.
The rescued pupils and teachers were abducted on May 15, 2026, when armed men attacked Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota; L.A. Primary School, Esiele; and Community Grammar School, Esiele in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State. They regained their freedom after spending 56 days in captivity, following a coordinated rescue operation involving the Nigerian Armed Forces and other security agencies.
