Oyo State Government has honoured civilians and security personnel who lost their lives during the rescue operation that secured the release of pupils and teachers abducted in Oriire Local Government Area, describing them as heroes whose sacrifices would never be forgotten.

In a memorial message posted on its official X account on Wednesday, the state government expressed gratitude for the successful rescue of the victims while mourning those who paid the ultimate price during the operation.

“While we express gratitude for the safe return of the children and teachers abducted from Oriire LGA, we also wish to honour those who lost their lives. We extend our deepest condolences to the bereaved families. We commit to supporting them during this trying period. May their souls rest in peace,” the government stated.

The state also released an “In Memoriam” list containing the names of civilians and security personnel who died during the Ahoro-Esinle and Yawota abduction incident.

The pupils and teachers were abducted on May 15, 2026, when gunmen attacked three schools in Ahoro-Esinle and Yawota communities in Oriire Local Government Area.

The victims regained their freedom after spending about 57 days in captivity following a coordinated rescue operation by security agencies.

During the initial attack, two teachers — Mr Michael Oyedokun and Mr Esiyan Adegboye —were killed by the abductors. While Adegboye’s body was recovered and buried shortly after the incident, Oyedokun’s remains have yet to be found.

His family has appealed to President Bola Tinubu, Governor Seyi Makinde and security agencies to recover his body to enable them give him a befitting burial.

The rescue operation also claimed the lives of several military and other security personnel involved in securing the victims’ release, with the Oyo State Government paying tribute to their courage and sacrifice.

The government reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the bereaved families while honouring the memory of those who lost their lives in the line of duty and in the attack. (Nigerian Tribune)