After 56 Days in Captivity: Abducted Oyo Pupils and Teachers Finally Rescued
Tinubu Hails Security Agencies, Orders Medical Care as 8 Kidnappers Arrested
Dozens of schoolchildren and teachers kidnapped by suspected bandits in Oriire, Oyo State, have been freed after 56 days in captivity, the Presidency announced on Friday.
The Rescue
Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga confirmed the rescue was achieved through a joint military, DSS, and police operation — with no concessions made to the kidnappers.
“There was no quid pro quo in the rescue,” Onanuga stated. “A notorious gang leader whose release was demanded by the abductors remains in custody and is being prosecuted for his atrocities.”
After 56 Days in Captivity: Abducted Oyo Pupils and Teachers Finally Rescued
Eight kidnappers were arrested and are now in DSS custody, while several others were neutralised during the operation.
Victims Speak
In an emotional video shared by the Presidency, a rescued teacher thanked President Bola Tinubu for securing their freedom:
“Hello sir, our father, we are grateful. We understand your commitment to our safety and we appreciate all you did for us. Every security operative tried so much, and that is why we are still alive today.”
The schoolchildren were seen eating biscuits and joining in to chant, “Thank you, sir.”
Presidential Response
President Tinubu expressed “profound happiness” over the successful operation, praising the armed forces, intelligence agencies, and police for ending the 56-day siege.
He directed emergency response agencies to work with the Oyo State Government to provide the victims with medical care and relief support, and pledged to get justice for the children, teachers, and the family of Mr. Oyedokun — a teacher gruesomely murdered by the terrorists.
“My government will get justice for these children and their teachers,” Tinubu vowed.
He also urged Governor Seyi Makinde to strengthen security around schools statewide to prevent a recurrence.
The Abduction
The attack occurred on May 15, 2026, when gunmen stormed three schools in Yawota and Ahoro-Esiele communities of Oriire LGA — targeting Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Community Grammar School, and L.A. Primary School. One teacher was killed during the assault, another died in captivity, and the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) held a nationwide rally demanding action.
Governor Makinde, reacting to the rescue, said: “It is such a big relief for all of us. Right now, I am overjoyed and can hardly say much.”
Comments
This post currently has no comments.