‘Govt Should Explain Circumstances Surrounding The Beheading Of Oyo Teacher’ – Falana

There was widespread relief on Friday following the rescue of pupils and teachers abducted from Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State after 56 days in captivity.

The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, confirmed the development on Friday evening, saying eight suspects linked to the abduction were arrested during the operation.

According to him, the suspects are currently being held by the Department of State Services (DSS) for further investigation.

Onanuga also disclosed that several other members of the gang were killed during the rescue mission.

The presidential aide said the victims were freed without the Federal Government yielding to the abductors’ demand for the release of a Boko Haram commander currently standing trial on terrorism charges.

He said security agencies carried out the operation despite the condition reportedly set by the kidnappers.

Falana Seeks Explanation Over Teacher’s Killing

Reacting to the development, human rights lawyer, Femi Falana (SAN), congratulated the rescued victims but called on the Federal Government to explain the circumstances surrounding the death of a teacher reportedly killed while in captivity.

Falana said the government owed Nigerians a clear account of how the teacher was murdered during the abduction crisis.

“While congratulating the rescued abductees, the government should explain the circumstances surrounding the killing of the teacher who was reportedly beheaded by the terrorist gang,” he said.

The senior advocate also urged the government to use the annual school holiday to strengthen security around educational institutions across the country.

He said special attention should be given to schools in rural communities, which are often more vulnerable to attacks and mass abductions.

“The government should take advantage of the annual vacation to secure all schools, particularly those located in rural areas across the states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory,” Falana added.