Joy and relief swept across Oyo State on Friday, July 10, 2026, as the pupils and teachers abducted in Oriire Local Government Area finally regained their freedom after spending nearly two months in captivity.
Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, announced the triumphant news, confirming that security agencies successfully rescued all the victims.
“Finally, all the kidnapped pupils and teachers in Orire, Oyo have been rescued by our security agencies,” Onanuga wrote on his verified X handle.
In an updated post on his verified X handle, he revealed critical new details:
“Updated: in the course of the rescue operation, eight of the kidnappers were arrested and are now in DSS custody, while some of them were neutralised. 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.”
The victims, comprising around 39 pupils and seven teachers seized during a daring attack on schools in the Ahoro-Esiele and Yawota communities on May 15, 2026, endured 56 harrowing days in the hands of their abductors. One teacher, Michael Oyedokun, was reportedly beheaded earlier during the ordeal.
Heartwarming videos emerging after the rescue showed the freed children and their teachers expressing deep gratitude to President Bola Tinubu and the security forces that brought them home safely.
“Mr President, we’re grateful. We understand your commitment to our safety and appreciate all your efforts. Thank you and every security operative involved,” the head teacher said.
No ransom was paid, according to official updates, marking a firm stance against negotiating with terrorists.
This development brings massive relief to families who had lived in agony since the abduction, which sparked widespread outrage, protests, and intense pressure on both federal and state governments to secure the victims’ release.
The safe return marks a significant triumph for Nigeria’s security agencies amid ongoing criticism over rising cases of kidnapping across the country.