We Walked in the Bush for Four Hours at Night - Freed Principal Recounts Terror in Captivity

The Principal of Community High School, Ahoro-Esinle, Oyo State, Mrs. Rachael Alamu, has recounted the traumatic ordeal she and her colleagues endured in captivity, describing the experience as emotionally draining and harrowing.

Speaking with journalists shortly after the victims were handed over to the Oyo State government, Alamu said they survived difficult conditions in captivity and drew strength from the belief that Nigerians across the country were praying for their safe return.

"It was a harrowing experience. We went through a lot, but we knew Nigerians were praying for us while we were in captivity. The kidnappers used fear to subdue us," she said.

Alamu said two teachers lost their lives during the captivity.

"They killed Mr Michael on the second day we got there, while Deacon was killed on the first Sunday in June," she said.

She also disclosed that before regaining their freedom, the victims were forced to trek through the forest for about four hours at night, an ordeal that left many of them with visible injuries.

"We walked in the bush for about four hours at night, and that's why we have bruises all over our bodies," she explained.

Responding to questions from journalists, Alamu clarified that none of the victims was sexually assaulted during their captivity, saying, "There was no sexual assault."

Asked whether the experience would affect her teaching career, Alamu admitted she was still coming to terms with the trauma and had not yet decided whether she would return to work.

"With time, I believe I will heal. But from Ogbomoso to where I work is already a long distance, and I have worked for 28 years already. I don't know what to do about that for now, but with time, I believe I will be able to make a decision," she said.

She expressed appreciation to God for preserving their lives and thanked the Federal Government, the Oyo State government, security agencies, and Nigerians for their efforts and prayers throughout the ordeal.

"We thank God for not leaving us. We thank the government for rescuing us, and we thank Nigerians for their prayers and support throughout our ordeal," she added.