The husband of Rachael Alamu, the Oyo State school principal who recently regained her freedom after spending more than 50 days in captivity, has revealed that he eventually blocked the kidnappers’ phone numbers during negotiations because their repeated threats were taking a serious toll on his health.
Professor Wole Alamu made the disclosure while giving a testimony during a thanksgiving service following his wife’s release, recounting how constant communication with the abductors left him emotionally drained, physically destabilised and battling high blood pressure.
During the emotional testimony, Professor Alamu described the experience as the greatest challenge his family had ever faced, saying the kidnapping disrupted what had been a quiet family life centred on academics, work and Christian service.
It was reported that Mrs Alamu, the principal of Ahoro Esinle School in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, was among pupils and teachers abducted by gunmen on May 15, 2026.
The victims spent more than 50 days in captivity before regaining their freedom after a rescue operation announced by the Federal Government.
He admitted that his wife’s abduction came as a personal embarrassment.
“My wife’s abduction was an embarrassment to me,” he said.
Despite the painful experience, the professor expressed gratitude for what he described as the swift response of security agencies immediately after the incident.
“They abducted my wife and other people. I got to Osiele.
“I would like to say that within 45 minutes, the General Officer Commanding of the 2nd Mechanised Division was already there. The Commissioner of Police was already there before me. Two helicopters were already combing the forest one hour before I got there.
“It can only be God, and it is an answered prayer from my pastor and every member of this association.”
He urged Christians to remain steadfast in their faith, saying difficult situations often expose a person’s spiritual foundation.
Addressing men during the service, Professor Alamu admitted that the experience humbled him despite initially believing he could withstand the emotional pressure.
“We the men, I know we are strong-hearted and stubborn. Big boys don’t cry. Big boys can become small boys.
“The night they abducted them, I went to meet Reverend and told him, ‘I will be strong.’
“I thought I was strong because that night was the longest night I ever lived.”
According to him, the ordeal taught him the importance of living a righteous Christian life before adversity strikes.
“If you don’t live right and this challenge faces you, the devil will come and tell you, ‘See yourself now.’