Falana Hails Gov. Makinde’s Efforts as Abducted Oriire Teachers, Pupils Regain Freedom After 55 Days in Captivity

The Chairman of the Oyo State Agency for Youth Development, Hon. Adebowale Adebayo Falana, has commended the Executive Governor of Oyo State, Engr ‘Seyi Makinde for his unwavering commitment and strategic leadership, following the safe release of the teachers and pupils abducted from Ahoro Esinele Community in Oriire Local Government Area after spending 55 days in captivity.

In a statement issued on Friday, by the Head of the media Unit to the Chairman, Opeyemi Rasheed Socrates, Falana described the victims’ return as a moment of relief and celebration for their families, the Ahoro community, and the entire people of Oyo State.

He lauded Governor Makinde for remaining resolute throughout the period of the abduction, noting that the governor’s administration worked tirelessly with security agencies and other relevant stakeholders to ensure the victims regained their freedom safely.

Falana said the successful rescue reflects the government’s commitment to protecting the lives and welfare of residents, while reaffirming that the Makinde administration places a high premium on the security of lives and property across the state.

The youth development chairman also acknowledged the peaceful advocacy led by social media activist Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, during his visit to Oyo State over the incident.

According to Falana, the peaceful protest helped draw wider public attention to the plight of the abducted teachers and pupils.

He noted that during the engagement, Governor Makinde assured the activist, affected families, and the people of Oyo State that every legitimate effort was being deployed to secure the safe return of the victims an assurance that has now been fulfilled.

He urged residents to continue supporting the efforts of the government and security agencies by providing timely and credible information that could aid crime prevention and strengthen community policing.

Falana further expressed appreciation to the security agencies, local vigilante groups, traditional rulers, community leaders, and everyone who contributed to the eventual release of the victims.

While congratulating the rescued teachers, pupils, and their families, he prayed for their speedy recovery from the physical and emotional trauma of the ordeal, expressing hope that such incidents would not recur in Oyo State.

He reaffirmed the commitment of the Oyo State Government, under the leadership of Governor ‘Seyi Makinde, to sustaining policies and initiatives aimed at guaranteeing the safety, peace, and well-being of all residents.