‘He’s never coming home’: Family mourns slain Oyo teacher as abducted pupils regain freedom
The family of Michael Oyedokun, the teacher killed by bandits while in captivity, has expressed mixed emotions following the rescue of pupils and teachers abducted from schools in Oyo State.
Oyedokun was among the teachers kidnapped by gunmen during attacks on schools in Oriire Local Government Area in May. While the remaining victims were rescued on Friday after spending 56 days in captivity, the late teacher’s family said their grief remains despite the successful operation.
Reacting on Instagram, Oluwabukolami, who identified Oyedokun as her uncle, said she was grateful that the abducted children and teachers had returned safely but noted that her family would never experience the same joy.
“They are finally home. My heart rejoices with every family that has been reunited with their loved ones after weeks of pain, fear, and uncertainty. Welcome home,” she wrote.
“But as others celebrate, my family mourns.
“My uncle, Mr Michael Olugbade Oyedokun, will never come home.
“He was taken from us, and his life was brutally cut short. Our joy is incomplete because one chair at our table will remain empty forever.
“Today, we celebrate those who returned, while remembering the one who never did. Rest in peace, Uncle Michael. You will never be forgotten.”
The abduction occurred on May 15 when armed men attacked Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, Community Grammar School, Esiele, and LA Primary School in Ogbomoso, all located in Oriire LGA of Oyo State.
The attacks prompted the Oyo State Government to close schools in four local government areas as security agencies intensified efforts to secure the victims’ release. The incident also sparked protests in parts of the country demanding the safe return of the abducted pupils and teachers.
On May 18, Governor Seyi Makinde confirmed that one of the abducted teachers had been killed while in captivity.
The rescued pupils and teachers regained their freedom after a joint operation by the military, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Police Force.
President Bola Tinubu welcomed the rescue, praising the security agencies for bringing the victims home without collateral damage. He also commended the Oyo State Government for working closely with the Federal Government throughout the operation.
The president directed emergency agencies to work with the state government to provide medical care and other support for the rescued victims. He also pledged that justice would be served for both the rescued victims and the family of Oyedokun.
Governor Makinde also expressed joy over the successful rescue, describing the operation as a welcome relief after weeks of uncertainty for the affected families.
