The victims regained their freedom on Friday after spending 56 days in captivity.
In separate statements issued on Saturday in Ibadan, both organisations commended the Federal Government, the Oyo State Government and security agencies for their roles in securing the victims’ freedom, while urging sustained efforts to ensure schools remain safe for learning.
The NUT, in a statement jointly signed by its Chairman, Fatai Hassani, and Secretary, Olukayode Salami, said the safe return of the victims had brought relief to teachers, pupils, students, parents and other stakeholders in the education sector.
“The incident tested the resilience of the education community, but we commend our teachers across the state for remaining united while praying for the safe return of their colleagues and the learners,” the union stated.
The union expressed appreciation to the Federal Government under President Bola Tinubu and the Oyo State Government led by Governor Seyi Makinde for deploying resources towards securing the victims’ release.
You May Like:Makinde Challenged Over Kidnapped Oyo Children, Ayodele Appeals to Tinubu
It also lauded security agencies for their commitment, professionalism and courage, noting that their coordinated efforts culminated in the successful rescue of the victims.
According to the union, the operation has reassured citizens, particularly those in the education sector, of the commitment of security agencies to protecting lives.
The statement added: “We appreciate the national and regional leadership of the union, traditional rulers, religious leaders, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), the All Nigeria Confederation of Principals of Secondary Schools (ANCOPSS), the Association of Primary School Head Teachers of Nigeria (AOPSHON), the media, civil society organisations, the global education community and other Nigerians for their prayers and support during the victims’ captivity.”
While celebrating the successful rescue, the NUT urged governments at all levels to strengthen security around schools and communities to prevent a recurrence of such incidents.
It stressed that every child deserved to learn in a safe environment, while every teacher should be able to discharge professional responsibilities without fear.
The union reaffirmed its commitment to working with government and other stakeholders to promote safe schools and quality education, expressing confidence that the incident would reinforce efforts to safeguard lives and secure the future of Nigerian children.
Similarly, the Oyo State chapter of CAN described the release of the victims as a demonstration of God’s faithfulness and mercy.
In a statement jointly signed by its Chairman, Rev. Elisha Ogundiya, and Secretary, Very Rev. Samuel Owolabi, the association expressed gratitude over the safe return of the abducted students and teachers from Ahoro-Esiele in the Ogbomoso area of the state.
“With joy and gratitude, we welcome the safe release of the students and teachers of Ahoro-Esiele in the Ogbomoso area of Oyo State who were abducted. To God alone be all the glory for preserving their lives and bringing them back safely to their families,” the statement read.
CAN also commended the Federal Government for its prompt intervention, Governor Makinde for what it described as his decisive action and coordination, as well as security agencies, including the police, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and the Amotekun Corps, for their efforts in securing the victims’ release.
“Your bravery, sacrifice and dedication will not be forgotten. Your collective efforts have restored hope to the families and to the entire Ogbomoso community,” the association said.
The Christian body further prayed for the counselling and speedy recovery of those affected by the ordeal and called for lasting peace and improved security across Oyo State and the country.
This version keeps the newspaper style, maintains the original context and length, and gives equal prominence to the reactions of both NUT and CAN from the opening paragraph onward.
