There was widespread celebration across Ogbomoso on Friday as the abducted schoolchildren and their teachers, who were kidnapped during an attack on schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, regained their freedom after spending 56 days in captivity.
Residents from different parts of the Ogbomoso zone, which comprises five Local Government Areas, poured onto the streets to celebrate the news of their release.
Many motorists, commercial motorcycle riders, travellers, and passersby reportedly stopped what they were doing to share in the moment of relief with the affected families.
The victims were abducted on May 15, 2026, during a coordinated attack on Community Grammar School, LA Primary School, and Baptist Nursery and Primary School in Oriire Local Government Area.
More than 40 pupils and their teachers were taken away by the attackers, leaving families and the community in distress for almost two months.
Celebration Across Ogbomoso
Residents described the atmosphere in the ancient city as one filled with excitement after reports confirming the release of the victims began circulating.
One resident, Akinkunmi Oyelade, said he initially doubted the reports until he witnessed people celebrating openly across the city.
“I initially did not believe it, but when I saw scores of Okada riders and the travellers parking their vehicles and praising them, I then believed that the information was true,” he said.
Another resident, Kemi Adeniyi, expressed happiness over the development but insisted that authorities should provide updates on those responsible for the abduction.
“If you ride a horse in me, you will not skip. I’m more than delighted with this great news. However, what happens to those who kept our family members for almost two months? Are they still alive? Or did the security operatives neutralise them? We need an update on that. They must not go unpunished. Or do both the Federal and State Governments want to give them amnesty like that of northerners? There shouldn’t be repentant Boko Haram o!” she said.
Reports also indicated that groups of youths celebrated across different parts of Ogbomoso as the news spread.
Families Express Gratitude After Release
For many families, the return of the victims marked the end of weeks of uncertainty and emotional hardship.
A government worker, who requested anonymity, said the community planned to continue celebrating into the night because one of his friend’s children was among those released.
“We shall paint everywhere red tonight because one of my friend’s children was among the abductees,” he said.
He also revealed that the child’s parent had struggled to remain hopeful throughout the period of captivity.
Also Read: Nigerian Army Reveals How 44 Abducted Oyo Pupils and Teachers Were Rescued After 56 Days
“On Sunday, I must come out in church to give testimony. My friend, whose one of his children was abducted, has always been asking if he would still see his child again. But I always tell him to relax, maintain decorum and believe in God,” he added.
The release of the victims has brought renewed hope to families and residents who had waited anxiously for weeks.
While the community celebrates the safe return of the abducted schoolchildren and their teachers, many residents are calling on security agencies to ensure those behind the attack are brought to justice and measures are strengthened to prevent similar incidents in schools across the country.
