Mixed feelings have greeted the rescue of the remaining victims of the abduction of pupils and staff members in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, by the family of Michael Oyedokun, one of the teachers killed during the attack.
The family said in a statement that while they shared the relief of those reunited with their loved ones, they would continue to live with the pain of Oyedokun’s death.
Reacting to the release of the abducted pupils and teachers on Friday, Oyedokun’s niece, Oluwabukolami, 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, describing the return as a moment of relief after weeks of fear and uncertainty.
They are home finally,” Oluwabukolami said.
“My heart rejoices with every family that has been reunited with their loved ones after weeks of pain, fear and uncertainty. “Home, welcome.”
But, she said, the family’s emotions were overshadowed by the fact that Oyedokun would never come back.
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She added: “But while others are celebrating, my family is mourning.
“My uncle, Mr Michael Olugbade Oyedokun will never come back home. He was taken from us and his life snuffed out so violently.
Oluwabukolami said the rescue of the remaining victims offered some comfort but left the family with a lingering sense of loss.
She wrote, “Our joy is not complete, one chair at our table will remain empty forever.
“We celebrate those who came home today, remembering the one who never did.
She paid tribute to the dead teacher, saying 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 more than 50 days, bringing relief to their families and the affected school communities.