Professor Wole Alamu, husband of Oyo school principal Rachael Alamu, who was freed after spending more than 50 days in captivity, says he blocked the kidnappers’ phone numbers during negotiations because their repeated threats were seriously affecting his health.
Professor Wole Alamu made the disclosure during a thanksgiving service, saying constant communication with the abductors left him emotionally drained and caused his blood pressure to rise.
Mrs Alamu, principal of Ahoro Esinle School in Oriire Local Government Area, was abducted alongside pupils and teachers on May 15, 2026.
They regained their freedom after more than 50 days in captivity following a rescue operation announced by the Federal Government.
Professor Alamu described the kidnapping as the greatest trial his family had faced, saying it disrupted their quiet life centred on academics, work and Christian service.
He also expressed gratitude for the swift response of security agencies, saying senior military and police officers arrived shortly after the incident and helicopters were deployed to search the forest.
He said he spoke directly with the kidnappers for about three weeks but eventually blocked their numbers after realising the threats were endangering his own health.
“You cannot kill me here and kill her there. Choose one,” he said, explaining why he cut off communication.
According to him, the kidnappers later threatened his wife after discovering they had been blocked, but she remained defiant, declaring they would not kill her.
He also alleged they left a cutlass beside her, apparently hoping she would take her own life, but she refused.
Professor Alamu said the ordeal attracted support from individuals and organisations within Nigeria and abroad, including calls from the United States and offers of assistance from non-governmental organisations.
Reflecting on the experience, he urged Christians to remain steadfast in their faith, saying difficult times reveal the strength of a person’s relationship with God.
He also appreciated the support he received from both Christian and Muslim communities, describing the family’s release as a testimony of God’s faithfulness
