“We Spent 56 Days Under Rain and Sun in the Forest” — Rescued Oriire Principal Recounts Ordeal

The Principal of Oriire High School has shared the painful experience of spending 56 days in captivity alongside pupils and fellow teachers after they were abducted by armed kidnappers in Oyo State.

Speaking after regaining freedom, the visibly emotional principal described the ordeal as one of the most traumatic experiences of their lives, revealing that they endured relentless rain, scorching sunshine and extreme hardship while being held deep inside the forest.

According to him, the victims had no shelter throughout most of their captivity and were forced to sleep on the bare ground while constantly moving from one location to another to avoid being detected by security operatives.

“We stayed in the forest for 56 days. We were exposed to the rain and the sun every day. It was a very difficult experience, but we kept praying and believing that one day we would return home alive,” he said.

The principal disclosed that food and clean drinking water were scarce, forcing the victims to survive on whatever their captors provided. He added that despite the harsh conditions, the teachers made every effort to comfort and encourage the pupils, helping them remain hopeful throughout the ordeal.

He praised the resilience displayed by the children, saying they remained remarkably courageous despite the fear and uncertainty surrounding their situation.

The principal also expressed gratitude to the Federal Government, the Oyo State Government, security agencies and everyone who contributed to securing their release, noting that their coordinated efforts made their freedom possible.

He particularly appreciated Nigerians who continued to pray and advocate for their safe return, describing the overwhelming support as a source of strength for both the victims and their families.

The emotional testimony came shortly after the rescued pupils and teachers reunited with their families following their release from captivity after nearly two months.

Their rescue has been widely welcomed across the country, with many Nigerians commending the efforts of security agencies while renewing calls for stronger measures to protect schools and prevent future abductions.

The victims are expected to undergo medical examinations, counselling and rehabilitation as they begin the process of recovering from the physical and psychological trauma of their prolonged captivity.