The family of Michael Oyedokun, one of the teachers killed during the abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to intervene in the recovery of his remains.
In an open letter addressed to the President, the family thanked the Federal Government and security agencies for rescuing the abducted pupils and teachers after nearly two months in captivity but said their grief remains unresolved because Oyedokun’s body has not been found.
The family expressed appreciation to the Nigerian Armed Forces, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies for securing the victims’ release.
While acknowledging the success of the rescue mission, they said they have been denied the opportunity to give their loved one a dignified burial.
“Our beloved relative, Mr. Michael Olugbade Oyedokun, tragically lost his life while in captivity. Although the rescue operation was successful, his remains have yet to be recovered and returned to us for a dignified burial in accordance with our faith, traditions, and values.
“The absence of his body has prolonged our grief and denied our family the closure that every human being deserves. We continue to live with the pain of not knowing where he rests, unable to perform the final rites that would honour his memory and bring peace to our hearts,” the family said.
They urged President Tinubu to direct the relevant security agencies to intensify efforts to locate and recover Oyedokun’s remains.
“Your Excellency, we respectfully appeal that you direct the relevant security agencies to intensify efforts to locate and recover the remains of Mr. Michael Olugbade Oyedokun.
“We are confident that the same resolve which secured the freedom of the surviving victims can also ensure that his body is returned to his family,” the letter read.
The family added that recovering the late teacher’s remains would restore dignity to his memory and help them begin the healing process after the tragedy.
