Family Of Slain Oyo Teacher Expresses Mixed Emotions As Kidnapped Pupils, Colleagues Regain Freedom
The family of one of the teachers killed during the attack on pupils and staff members in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State has rescued the remaining victims of the abduction, but the rescue has been met with mixed feelings.
In a statement, the family said that while they share the relief of those reunited with their loved ones, they would continue to live with the pain of Oyedokun’s death.
Oyedokun’s niece, Oluwabukolami, reacting to the release of the abducted pupils and teachers on Friday said the development could not take away the family’s grief.
Oluwabukolami, who has been the family’s spokesperson since the incident, made the comments in an Instagram post.
She congratulated the rescued victims and their relatives, calling the return a moment of relief after weeks of fear and uncertainty.
They are finally home,” said Oluwabukolami.
“My heart rejoices with every family reunited with their loved ones after weeks of pain, fear and uncertainty. “Home, welcome.”
But, she said, the family’s feelings were eclipsed by the fact that Oyedokun would never return.
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She added: “But when others are celebrating, my family is in mourning.
“My uncle, Mr Michael Olugbade Oyedokun is not coming home again. He was taken from us, so violently snuffed out his life.
“The rescue of the remaining victims has been some kind of relief, but there is still a lingering sense of loss in the family,” said Oluwabukolami.
She wrote, “Our joy is not complete, one chair at our table will remain forever empty.
“We celebrate those who returned home today, remembering the one who never did.
He was remembered by the dead teacher, and the family would never forget him.
“Rest in peace Uncle Michael. “You’ll never be forgotten,” she added.
The pupils and teachers were released on Friday after being held captive for over 50 days, bringing relief to their families and the affected school communities.
