Mrs. Rachael Folake Alamu, one of the teachers recently rescued after spending 56 days in captivity following the abduction of pupils and staff in Oyo State, has recounted details of the ordeal, revealing that the kidnappers used her vehicle to transport the victims during the initial stage of the abduction.
Speaking after regaining her freedom, Mrs. Alamu said she and others were forced into a frightening journey after armed men intercepted them and took control of her car.
“When we were taken, my car was used to convey us to the point where we met the primary school teachers and pupils,” she said.
According to her, the abductors drove the vehicle to a location where another group of victims—comprising primary school teachers and pupils who had also been kidnapped—had been assembled before moving everyone deeper into captivity.
Her account provides further insight into how the kidnappers coordinated the abduction, suggesting that they brought together victims from different locations before transporting them to their hideout.
Mrs. Alamu was among the teachers and pupils rescued by security operatives after spending 56 days in captivity. Their release followed weeks of coordinated intelligence gathering and rescue operations involving the military, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), and other security agencies.
The abduction, which drew widespread national attention, sparked renewed concerns about the safety of schools and educators, particularly in rural communities vulnerable to attacks by armed groups.
The successful rescue has been welcomed by families, education stakeholders, and government officials, who have praised the efforts of security agencies involved in the operation.
Following their release, the rescued victims were taken to the Oyo State Secretariat in Agodi, Ibadan, where they were formally received by Governor Seyi Makinde before undergoing medical evaluations and psychosocial support.
Authorities have said the victims will continue to receive counselling and other forms of rehabilitation to aid their recovery from the trauma of the prolonged captivity.
The Oyo State Government has reiterated its commitment to strengthening security around schools through closer collaboration with federal security agencies and the implementation of additional measures aimed at preventing similar incidents.
While the safe return of the victims has brought relief to many families, the incident has also highlighted the persistent threat posed by kidnappers and the need for sustained efforts to improve security across the state.
Investigations into the abduction are ongoing, with security agencies continuing efforts to apprehend those responsible and dismantle the criminal network behind the attack.
