The Ladoke Akintola University of Technology in Ogbomoso held an interfaith thanksgiving and prayer session on Tuesday to thank God for the safe rescue of the spouses of two staff members and other victims abducted by kidnappers in Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

The event was attended by principal officers, including Vice-Chancellor Professor Razaq Olatunde Rom Kalilu, Registrar Mrs Olayinka Olanike Balogun, and other members of staff.

Professor Kalilu expressed gratitude to God for His mercy and faithfulness. He said the university community gathered as Christians, Muslims, and people of other faiths to offer thanksgiving and pray for continued peace and security. The vice chancellor noted that the kidnapping became more personal when it was discovered that families of two staff members were among those affected.

The University Chaplain, Pastor David Olawuyi, described the occasion as a celebration of God’s faithfulness. Special prayers were offered for the released victims, focusing on healing, restoration, and emotional recovery. Prayers were also said for the university, Ogbomosoland, Oyo State, and Nigeria, seeking lasting peace and an end to kidnapping and other security challenges.

Professor Wole Alamu, Dean of the Faculty of Renewable Natural Resources and husband of one of the rescued victims, received a thunderous ovation as he spoke on behalf of the affected families. He thanked God and the university community for their prayers and support throughout the ordeal.

The Registrar, Mrs Olayinka Olanike Balogun, delivered the vote of thanks and commended the vice chancellor for his leadership.

The thanksgiving service marked the end of a traumatic period for the university community. Many expressed relief and joy as the victims were safely reunited with their families. The event served as a moment of reflection and renewed faith in divine protection for LAUTECH and the entire nation.

Photo credit: Lauthech