There were tears of joy in Kaduna on Wednesday as Governor Uba Sani received Treasure Ayuba, a student of Bethel Baptist High School, who was recently released from bandits' captivity.
While the other students were released in batches at different times, Treasure was the last kept in captivity by the bandits until a few days ago.
Emotions ran high as the state chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) that accompanied the freed young Ayuba to Government House recounted how much kidnap victims have been suffering in captivity.
While hailing the governor for recruiting 7,000 vigilante service officials, the cleric thumbed up security agents for stepping up action against kidnappers in the State.
"Today, I had the honour of receiving our dear son, Treasure Ayuba, a student of Bethel Baptist High School, who was recently released from captivity. Treasure was led on this visit by our highly respected cleric, the CAN Chairman, Kaduna Chapter, Rev. John Joseph Hayab and accompanied by his parents and relatives," an elated Governor Uba Sani said.
While expressing gratitude to Almighty God for His divine intervention, the governor commended the courage of Treasure Ayuba's parents and relations. He also commended Rev. Hayab for his exemplary leadership.
"I must not fail to commend our security agencies for working relentlessly to ensure the safe return of Treasure Ayuba and other kidnapped school children.
"While we rejoice over the safe return of Treasure Ayuba, we must remember that there are other children still being held by criminal elements. We shall not rest until they are released and reunited with their families. The Kaduna State Government is putting in place concrete measures to ensure the safety and security of our schools," the governor stated.