It was an emotional scene in Oyo State on Tuesday as 44 pupils and teachers rescued from kidnappers reunited with their families after spending 56 days in captivity.

The reunions took place at the Ladoke Akintola University Teaching Hospital (LAUTECH), Ogbomoso, where the victims had undergone medical evaluation and psychological support before being discharged. Parents and relatives, many overwhelmed with emotion, embraced their children with tears, prayers and songs of thanksgiving.

Several parents expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, security agencies, clerics and Nigerians for their prayers and efforts that led to the victims’ safe return. One of the rescued teachers, Mary Dahunsi, thanked God for preserving their lives throughout the ordeal.

The Chief Medical Director of LAUTECH Teaching Hospital disclosed that most of the victims had been certified medically fit and discharged, while a few remained under observation. He also revealed that one of the rescued children was diagnosed with a congenital heart defect during routine medical checks and would receive further treatment through the Oyo State Government.

The pupils and teachers were abducted on May 15, 2026, when armed men attacked three schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State. They regained their freedom on July 10 following an intelligence-led rescue operation by Nigerian security forces, bringing an end to nearly two months of captivity. Visit www.jocomms.com for more news.