Originally published at The Crux
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Bishop Emmanuel Adetoyese Badejo of Nigeria’s Oyo Diocese has expressed profound relief following the release of 45 teachers and students who had been held in captivity for nearly 60 days.
The victims were freed on July 10 thanks to a joint intervention by Nigeria’s security and political forces.
They had been kidnapped on May 15 when armed men stormed schools along the Ahoro-Esiele/Yawota axis of Ogbomoso in Oyo State.
The assailants invaded during class hours, shot a teacher, and abducted pupils, students, teachers, and the principal of Community Grammar School, Mrs. Rachael Alamu.
Describing the news as “sweet, sweet relief,” Bishop Badejo said he was overjoyed by the safe return of the victims.
“I thank God Almighty who made this possible,” the bishop said in a statement. “Felicitations to the families who are going to welcome their members back after such a long period of agony.”
He also extended his sympathies to the families of those who lost their lives during the initial attack.
The rescue operation also drew commendation from Nigeria’s highest office. In a July 10 statement, presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga quoted President Bola Tinubu as expressing profound joy over the successful operation.
“I am profoundly happy
