All pupils and teachers abducted in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State have regained their freedom after weeks in captivity, the Presidency announced on Friday .
Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga confirmed the successful rescue operation via his verified X handle, stating that security agencies secured the release of all victims .
In a detailed update, Onanuga disclosed that the rescue operation yielded significant arrests. Eight suspected kidnappers were arrested and are currently in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS), while several others were neutralised during the operation .
The presidential spokesman also addressed speculation surrounding the circumstances of the release. He clarified that the government made no concessions to secure the victims’ freedom. The kingpin whose release the kidnappers had demanded remains in custody and is being prosecuted for his terrorist activities .
“Security agencies will give full account soon,” Onanuga stated .
The victims were abducted on May 15, 2026, when heavily armed gunmen invaded three schools in the Esiele and Yawota communities of Oriire Local Government Area . The attackers targeted Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Community Grammar School, and LEA Primary School, killing a teacher during the raid . The ordeal took a tragic turn when another teacher was later beheaded, sparking national outrage .
The rescue operation marks the end of a tense period that had kept families and the nation on edge for weeks . Details surrounding the full scope of the rescue operation remain unclear, though the Presidency promised a comprehensive account from security agencies in due course.
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