The Defence Headquarters of Nigeria has released a rare video showcasing the coordinated military and security operation that led to the successful rescue of students, teachers, and other passengers abducted in Oyo State. The footage, shared via the official X account @DHQNigeria, highlights the collaborative efforts of multiple agencies in the high-stakes mission.
Details of the Joint Rescue Operation
The video reveals that personnel from the Nigerian Navy Special Boat Service, Nigerian Army, Nigerian Air Force, Department of State Services (DSS), and Nigerian Police Force all participated in the operation. According to the Defence Headquarters, the rescue was the result of sustained intelligence-driven operations and inter-agency collaboration across the affected areas. Additional security components also contributed to the search efforts spanning the abduction zone.
Intelligence gathering and persistent field operations enabled security forces to locate the victims and bring them to safety, with no casualties reported among the rescued individuals. The Defence Headquarters confirmed that security operatives have since intensified pursuit of those responsible for the abduction, with efforts ongoing to bring the perpetrators to justice.
Father of Slain Lieutenant Speaks Out
In a related development, the family of Lieutenant Felix Ademe Isaac, the 28-year-old Nigerian Army officer who lost his life leading the rescue operation, has spoken out. His father, Mr. Isaac Alabura, a retired Master Warrant Officer, described his son as "the hope of the family and the community" in an interview at the family home in Bachure Quarters, Yola, on Sunday. Lt. Isaac was born on August 25, 1997, and was buried with full military honors at the 23rd Armoured Brigade Cemetery in Yola, Adamawa State, on July 10, 2026—the same day the rescue operation freed the victims.
The video shared by the Defence Headquarters serves as a testament to the bravery and coordination of Nigeria's security forces in combating kidnapping and ensuring the safety of citizens.
