The Governor of Ekiti State, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, security agencies, and Ekiti residents for their collaborative efforts leading to the release of kidnapped pupils in the state.
In a press statement on Sunday, signed by the Special Adviser on Media, Olayinka Oyebode, the Governor congratulated the children and their families and lauded President Bola Tinubu for providing directives that expedited the search and rescue mission.
The State Police Command’s spokesperson confirmed on Sunday that the students were released in the early hours, also reporting the unfortunate death of the school bus driver in the kidnappers’ custody.
Governor Oyebanji acknowledged the solidarity of his colleagues, former governors, religious leaders, traditional rulers, and the Ekiti State Caucus in the National Assembly, thanking them for their support. He also expressed gratitude to God for the successful outcome.
Concerned about the traumatic experience faced by the children during their captivity, Governor Oyebanji directed the Commissioner for Health and Human Services to ensure the children receive proper medical treatment and post-trauma therapy at the state Teaching Hospital in Ado Ekiti.
The Governor, who vigilantly worked alongside Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, emphasized his administration’s commitment to eradicating crime from the state. He reassured the public that criminals would face the full force of the law and urged citizens to remain vigilant, reporting any suspicious activities to the authorities.
Furthermore, Governor Oyebanji pledged to ensure the perpetrators of the recent killings of two Ekiti obas are identified and brought to justice.