The schoolchildren and teachers abducted by suspected bandits in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State have regained their freedom after spending 56 days in captivity.
The rescue was confirmed on Friday by the Presidency through the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, who said the victims were freed during a coordinated operation by Nigeria’s security agencies.
According to Onanuga, eight members of the kidnapping gang were arrested during the operation and are currently in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS), while several other members of the gang were neutralised.
He emphasized that the rescue operation was carried out without any negotiations or concessions to the kidnappers. Contrary to the abductors’ demands, a notorious gang leader whose release had been requested remains in custody and is facing prosecution for alleged crimes.
Speaking after the rescue, one of the freed teachers expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu and the security agencies for securing their release.
“We are grateful, Mr. President. We understand your commitment to our safety and appreciate everything you did for us. Every security operative worked tirelessly, and that is why we are still alive today,” she said in a video released after the operation.
The rescued pupils were also seen thanking the President while receiving food and care following their release.
Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde described the successful operation as a huge relief for the state, saying, “It is such a big relief for all of us. Right now, I am overjoyed and can hardly say much.”
President Bola Tinubu also welcomed the successful rescue, commending the Nigerian Armed Forces, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Police Force for their professionalism and commitment throughout the operation.
The President sympathised with the rescued children, teachers, and their families over the trauma they endured during the 56-day ordeal. He further directed emergency response agencies to collaborate with the Oyo State Government to provide the victims with comprehensive medical care, psychological support, and other necessary relief services as they begin their recovery.
President Tinubu also urged the Oyo State Government to strengthen security around schools to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The victims were abducted on May 15, 2026, when armed attackers invaded Community High School, Ahoro-Esinele, in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
During the attack, one teacher was shot dead, while reports later indicated that another abducted teacher was killed by the kidnappers.
The incident sparked widespread condemnation and protests across Oyo State, with teachers demanding swift action to secure the victims’ release.
The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) described the attack as “barbaric and inhuman” and organised nationwide rallies, warning that continued attacks on schools posed a serious threat to education and the safety of teachers and pupils across the country.
The successful rescue brings an end to nearly two months of uncertainty for the victims, their families, and the wider Oyo community.
