The Nigerian Army has confirmed the unconditional release of 44 pupils and teachers abducted from three schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State. The release followed sustained intelligence-led operations that dismantled the terrorist network responsible for the kidnapping.
Details of the Abduction
On 15 May, terrorists invaded Baptist Nursery and Primary School (Yawota), Community High School (Ahoro-Esinele) and L.A. Primary School (Ahoro-Esinele), abducting 46 people — 39 students and seven teachers. During the attack, teacher Adegboye Adesiyan was killed on the spot, and another teacher, Michael Oyedokun, was killed in captivity, reducing the number of hostages to 44.
Release After 56 Days
The victims spent 56 days with their abductors before regaining their freedom on Friday. According to authorities, their release was the result of a month-long intelligence-driven operation involving the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), the State Security Service (SSS), the Nigerian Army, the police, and other security agencies.
Presidential Reaction
President Bola Tinubu celebrated the release, praising security operatives for their “heroic” efforts. He revealed that many of the terrorists were killed and eight were arrested. Tinubu vowed to secure justice for the victims and directed emergency agencies to collaborate with the Oyo State Government to provide medical and relief support.
No Ransom Paid
Governor Seyi Makinde also commended the operations, emphasizing that no ransom was paid. He expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for his support.
Army Statement on Operations
In a statement, Jonah Danjuma, spokesperson for the 2 Division in Ibadan, explained that the release followed coordinated operations targeting the group’s leadership, logistics, and informant network. The operations were led by General Officer Commanding (GOC) of 2 Division, CR Nnebeife, in collaboration with ONSA, the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), the SSS, the armed forces, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Defence Headquarters, police, Amotekun corps, local vigilantes, and hunters.
Focus on Dismantling Network
The security operation focused on identifying kingpins and dismantling their operational network and hideouts within the Old Oyo National Park forest. Multiple arrests were made in Oyo State and other parts of the country, disrupting the group’s activities. Danjuma stated, “The arrests completely disorganised the group, exerted overwhelming pressure on them and ultimately led the terrorist group to unconditionally release the pupils and teachers.”
Safe Recovery and Ongoing Operations
The operation was deliberately planned to ensure safe recovery of hostages while avoiding collateral damage. Danjuma disclosed that security forces recorded casualties during the operation but did not provide details. The rescued pupils and teachers are currently receiving medical treatment at an undisclosed hospital before being handed over to the Oyo State Government for reunification with their families. Further operations will continue to track down other members of the network and dismantle any remaining terrorist cells linked to the abduction.
