‘We Thought We Had Lost Them’: Prof. Alamu Gives Thanks After Wife’s Rescue from Oriire Abductors

After 56 agonising days of uncertainty, fear and prayers, the family of Professor Wole Alamu says it had almost resigned itself to the possibility of never seeing its loved ones alive again until the life-changing news arrived on Friday, July 10, 2026.

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Prof. Alamu, whose wife, Mrs. Rachael Alamu, the Principal of Community High School, Ahoro-Esinele in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, was among the teachers abducted by bandits, described her rescue as nothing short of a miracle.

In a statement released by the family, the university lecturer said the weeks of captivity tested their faith and resilience, but the overwhelming support from Nigerians at home and abroad gave them the strength to keep hoping.

“The safe rescue inspired us with a big relief after a long period of anxiety (56 days), afraid we might not see our loved ones again. But hearing the news on Friday (July 10, 2026), and to know they are in good condition is gladdening. The situation stretched our faith and resilience, but with everybody’s strong, unalloyed support and concerted efforts, we triumphed over evil. To God be the glory,” he said.

The family expressed profound appreciation to Almighty God and to Nigerians across religious, ethnic and political divides for their prayers, encouragement, financial assistance and unwavering solidarity throughout the ordeal.

According to Prof. Alamu, the outpouring of compassion from people across the country convinced the family that Nigeria remains a nation of caring people despite its security challenges.

He also thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Seyi Makinde, Deputy Governor Bayo Lawal, security agencies, Amotekun Corps, local vigilantes, traditional rulers, religious leaders, lawmakers, the management and staff of LAUTECH, socio-cultural organisations, media organisations and numerous individuals for their contributions towards securing the victims’ freedom.

The family particularly acknowledged the efforts of security agencies, traditional institutions and community leaders who worked behind the scenes to facilitate the rescue, describing the successful operation as the product of collaboration, determination and divine intervention.

While celebrating the safe return of the victims, the family sympathised with families who lost loved ones during the abduction and prayed for the safe release of other Nigerians still being held captive by criminal gangs across the country.

Prof. Alamu urged Nigerians to sustain the spirit of unity and collective responsibility demonstrated during the crisis, saying the experience showed that the country’s security challenges could be overcome through sincere collaboration among governments, security agencies, traditional institutions and citizens.

He concluded by praying for peace in Nigeria and called for a nation where every citizen can pursue their dreams without fear, saying the lessons from the ordeal should inspire greater unity in confronting insecurity and other national challenges.