After almost 60days in captivity, the pupils and teachers abducted in Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State have regained their freedom.
The development was disclosed on Friday by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
Onanuga in a post shared on his verified X handle, simply announced that the victims had been released by their abductors.
“Finally, all the kidnapped pupils and teachers in Orire, Oyo have been rescued by our security agencies,” he wrote.
Details surrounding their release, including whether any ransom was paid or the circumstances leading to their freedom, was not mentioned.
The abductions occurred on May 15, 2026, when armed men attacked three schools; Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery and Primary School, and L.A. Primary School, in the Esiele and Yawota communities of Oriire Local Government Area.
No fewer than 39 pupils and seven teachers, including a principal, were taken during the attacks.
Providing further details, Onanuga said no concession was made to the kidnappers in securing the freedom of the victims, adding that eight suspects had been arrested and handed over to the Department of State Services.
He added that some of the kidnappers were also neutralized during the operation.
“There was no quid pro quo in the rescue as one of the terrorists, a kingpin, that the kidnappers demanded his release, is being prosecuted for his atrocities. The security agencies will give full account soon,” he said.
The attack had resulted in the death of a teacher, Joel Adesiyan, who was reportedly killed while attempting to escape, while another teacher, Michael Oyedokun, was also reportedly killed in captivity.
Following their release, the rescued pupils and teachers have expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu and security agencies for their efforts in ensuring their safe return.
In a video shared by the Presidency, one of the rescued victims said: “We are grateful, Mr President, sir. We understand your commitment to our safety, and we appreciate all you did for us.”
The victim also commended security personnel involved in the rescue operation, saying their efforts contributed to their survival.
“Every security operative tried so much and that is why we are still alive now. We are very grateful to you. Thank you very much,” the victim added.
The abduction had generated widespread concern across Oyo State and beyond, prompting interventions from security agencies, while the Nigeria Union of Teachers in the state embarked on a month-long strike to demand urgent action towards rescuing the victims.
The Oyo State Government had repeatedly stated that it would not pay ransom to secure the release of kidnapped victims.
The Presidency said security agencies would provide a comprehensive briefing on the rescue operation and subsequent actions against the arrested suspects.
