Rescued Oyo pupils, teachers suffered chains, blindfolds, ordeal in captivity — Soun of Ogbomoso

The Soun of Ogbomoso, Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, has described the testimonies of the recently rescued pupils and teachers abducted in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State as heartbreaking, revealing that the victims endured unimaginable suffering during more than 50 days in captivity.

The monarch made the disclosure after leading a high-powered delegation to the Ojoo Military Cantonment, where the rescued victims are currently receiving medical attention and rehabilitation following their rescue by security forces.

The delegation comprised the Alaajawa of Ajaawa, Thompson Adeyeye Oyetunji, the Onisapa of Isapa, Bolarinwa Ezekiel Olajide, and Senator Fatai Buhari. They were received by the General Officer Commanding and other senior military officers at the cantonment.

Sharing details of the visit in a statement posted on his Facebook page, Oba Olaoye said hearing the victims recount their experiences in the kidnappers’ camp was one of the most emotional moments he had witnessed.

“Listening to their testimonies was deeply emotional. Their account of life in the bush revealed the unimaginable hardship they endured,” the monarch said.

According to him, some of the revelations made by the rescued victims were particularly disturbing and highlighted the brutality they suffered while in the custody of their abductors.

READ ALSO: Oyo school rescue sparks online debate over victims’ appearance after 56 days in captivity

“Particularly heartbreaking were the revelations 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,” he stated.

Despite the traumatic experiences recounted by the victims, the traditional ruler said their safe rescue remained a source of gratitude and hope for their families and the entire Ogbomoso community.

“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. All the children and teachers are currently being cared for in the hospital,” he said.

Oba Olaoye added that what many had feared would end in tragedy had instead become “a testimony of God’s mercy and faithfulness.”

The monarch also expressed appreciation to the Federal Government, the Oyo State Government, the Nigerian Armed Forces, other security agencies and all individuals whose efforts contributed to the successful rescue operation.

“I also 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,” he added.

The pupils and teachers were abducted by armed bandits while travelling through Oriire Local Government Area, sparking widespread concern and sustained calls for their rescue.

Their release after spending more than 50 days in captivity has been widely welcomed across Oyo State, with government officials, traditional rulers and residents describing it as a major breakthrough in ongoing efforts to combat kidnapping and insecurity in the region.