A relative of one of the pupils rescued after the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State has recounted the harrowing conditions the victims allegedly endured in captivity, saying the abductors fed them garri and physically assaulted one of the children for asking about family members.
The relative shared the account shortly after the victims regained their freedom following weeks in captivity, providing insight into the conditions they reportedly faced while being held by the armed group.
According to the family member, the abducted pupils and teachers survived on meagre meals, with garri said to be one of the few foods regularly provided by their captors. The relative alleged that the children were subjected to harsh treatment and lived in constant fear throughout the ordeal.
The family member further claimed that one of the pupils was beaten after asking the captors about his family, an incident that underscored the psychological and physical trauma the victims reportedly experienced while in captivity.
“They were fed mainly with garri, and one of the children was beaten simply for asking about his family,” the relative said, describing the children’s experience as heartbreaking.
The account emerged after the successful rescue of the abducted pupils and teachers by security agencies, bringing an end to weeks of uncertainty for their families and communities.
Following the rescue, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde announced that all the victims had been safely recovered and would remain under medical observation for 48 hours to assess their physical and psychological condition before being reunited with their families.
Medical experts and child welfare advocates have stressed the importance of comprehensive healthcare and psychosocial support for the rescued victims, noting that prolonged captivity can have lasting emotional and mental health effects, particularly on children.
Security agencies have continued efforts to investigate the circumstances surrounding the abduction and identify those responsible, while authorities have reiterated their commitment to strengthening security around schools and other vulnerable locations.
The abduction, which drew national attention, sparked widespread concern over the safety of students and teachers, prompting renewed calls for enhanced security measures to protect educational institutions across the country.
As the rescued pupils begin their recovery, relatives say the immediate priority is helping them overcome the trauma they endured in captivity and gradually return to normal life.
Authorities have not independently verified every aspect of the family’s account. However, officials have confirmed that the rescued pupils and teachers are receiving medical care and other forms of support as investigations into the incident continue.
