‘One chair will remain empty forever’ – Slain Oyo teacher’s family reacts to rescue

The family of Michael Oyedokun, the schoolteacher who was killed by kidnappers while in captivity, has expressed mixed emotions following the rescue of the pupils and teachers abducted during the May 15 attack on schools in Oyo State.

Oyedokun was among the teachers abducted by gunmen from Community High School, Ahoro-Esiele, in Oriire Local Government Area before he was later murdered in captivity.

The remaining 44 victims regained their freedom on Friday after spending 56 days in captivity following a coordinated rescue operation involving the military, the Department of State Services and the Nigeria Police Force.

Reacting to the development, an Instagram user, Oluwabukolami, who identified Oyedokun as her uncle, said while the family was grateful that the children and other captives had returned safely, their own pain remained because their loved one would never return.

“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, Ogbomoso, all in Oriire Local Government Area.