‘Eight Weeks of Agony Ended’ — Husband of Freed Oyo Principal Speaks After Release

Professor Wale Alamu, husband of the principal of Community High School, Ahoro-Esiele, Mrs Rachael Alamu, has described the release of the abducted Oyo pupils, teachers and school officials as the end of an eight-week period of pain and uncertainty.

Speaking on Friday after news of the victims freedom emerged, Professor Alamu said the family endured immense emotional trauma throughout the period his wife and others remained in captivity.

“For the past eight weeks, I have been living through immense pain. Today, God has taken that pain away,” he said.

The academic expressed appreciation to individuals, groups and authorities who contributed to securing the victims release, commending the efforts of the Federal Government, Oyo State Government and Nigerians across religious and social divides.

“I want to thank everyone who contributed to bringing an end to my suffering. I am grateful to the presidency, the state governor, the state executive council, Nigerians as a whole, Muslims, Christians and even traditional worshippers,” he said.

Professor Alamu said the successful outcome reflected the collective prayers and support of many people who stood with the affected families throughout the ordeal.

While celebrating the victims freedom, he urged authorities to conduct a thorough review of the circumstances surrounding the abduction and implement measures to prevent a recurrence.

He stressed the need for stronger security around schools and vulnerable communities, adding that lessons must be drawn from the incident.

“I believe everyone has learnt one lesson or another from this incident. Once a thorough review has been carried out, the government will identify the areas that need attention and take the necessary steps to ensure that such an unfortunate incident does not happen again,” he added.

The victims were abducted during an attack on schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, an incident that sparked nationwide concern and renewed calls for improved protection of educational institutions.