Nigerian socialite and businessman Pascal Okechukwu, widely known as Cubana Chief Priest, has expressed immense joy following the release of 39 pupils and six teachers who were abducted in Oyo State. The victims spent more than 50 days in captivity after being seized from their schools in Oriire Local Government Area on May 15, 2026.
Presidential media aide Bayo Onanuga confirmed the rescue on Friday, July 10, 2026, sharing photographs of the freed victims on X. The news sparked widespread celebration across Nigeria, with many hailing the efforts of security agencies.
Cubana Chief Priest Reacts on Instagram
Taking to Instagram, Cubana Chief Priest could barely contain his excitement. He described the development as the highlight of the week, writing: "It's gonna be such an amazing weekend. Thank God, this is the best news so far." His post quickly attracted hundreds of comments from followers who shared his relief and gratitude.
One follower, @mmili_oflagos, wrote: "Hallelujah, that's really a good News ???" Another user, @reginoh_music, reacted: "What GOD Can Not Do ? ❤️ Does Not Exist ??? JESUS IGWEEEEEE ??????"
Details of the Rescue Operation
According to reports, the abductors killed one teacher during captivity, but the remaining victims were freed unharmed. Presidential aide Bayo Onanuga confirmed that no deals or concessions were made to secure the children's freedom. He also noted that a kingpin demanded by the kidnappers remains under prosecution for criminal offences.
In a related development, Legit.ng reported that eight suspects involved in the kidnapping have been arrested and are now in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS). Some kidnappers were killed during the rescue operation, while others were apprehended and transferred to DSS custody.
Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde also broke his silence on the rescue, thanking security forces for their efforts and assuring the public that the state government would continue to prioritize the safety of schoolchildren.
Mixed Reactions from Netizens
While many celebrated the release, some netizens raised questions about the circumstances. User @chimaigwe500 commented: "They no rescue them, they release them... but thank God." Another, @aniakor_calista_a, noted: "They even asked them to smile to the camera ??"
Some users demanded accountability for the perpetrators. @obelehenry101 asked: "How far the perpetuators?" Meanwhile, @nnodimnzubechi questioned: "So them kpai that head teacher and una rescue the children without ki lliñg or catching any of the kidnappers?"
Broader Context of School Abductions in Nigeria
The abduction of schoolchildren has become a recurring security challenge in Nigeria, particularly in the northern and southwestern regions. The Oyo incident, which occurred on May 15, 2026, involved terrorists targeting multiple schools in Oriire LGA. The victims included 39 pupils and six teachers, with one teacher reportedly killed during the ordeal.
Security analysts have called for stronger measures to protect schools, including improved surveillance, community policing, and intelligence sharing. The successful rescue operation, however, has been hailed as a significant achievement by security agencies.
Cubana Chief Priest's reaction reflects the mood of many Nigerians who see the release as a moment of hope. His Instagram post garnered thousands of likes and comments, with many users echoing his sentiment that this is the best news in weeks.
In a separate development, Cubana Chief Priest recently made headlines after mistakenly revealing that popular TikTok couple Peller and Jarvis are expecting a baby. The revelation during a livestream fueled ongoing pregnancy speculation among fans.
