The family of the rescued Principal of Community High School, Esiele, was filled with gratitude on Sunday as they held a thanksgiving service to celebrate her safe return after days in captivity.
Her husband, Professor Alamu, was visibly overwhelmed with joy as family members, friends and well-wishers gathered to give thanks to God for preserving her life and reuniting her with her loved ones.
The thanksgiving service came barely two days after the successful rescue of the principal, alongside other teachers and schoolchildren who were abducted in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State. News of their rescue, which was announced on Friday night, quickly went viral across social media and mainstream news platforms, attracting widespread celebrations from Nigerians.
The successful rescue operation has been widely hailed as a major breakthrough in the state’s fight against insecurity, with many commending the gallantry of the security agencies involved in the operation.
The rescued teachers and pupils are currently receiving medical attention and undergoing routine medical evaluation at the Odogbo Barracks Medical Clinic Centre to ensure their physical and psychological well-being before they are reunited with their families.
Speaking after the thanksgiving service, Professor Alamu expressed profound gratitude to God for sparing his wife’s life and thanked Governor Seyi Makinde, the Nigerian Army, other security agencies, and everyone who contributed to the successful rescue operation.
He described the reunion as a miracle and prayed for the repose of the souls of the security personnel who paid the supreme price during the rescue mission, while also wishing the injured officers speedy recovery.
The emotional thanksgiving service reflected the relief and happiness shared by many families whose loved ones returned safely, bringing an end to days of anxiety and uncertainty.
