After 56 Days In Captivity: Oyo Schoolchildren, Teachers Finally Regain Freedom
There was nationwide relief on Friday as the schoolchildren and teachers abducted in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State regained their freedom after spending 56 days with their captors.
The victims were taken on May 15, 2026, when gunmen stormed three schools in Yawota and Ahoro-Esiele communities — Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Community Grammar School, and L.A. Primary School. The attack left one teacher dead, and another later died in captivity. The incident sparked protests in Ogbomoso and a nationwide rally by the Nigeria Union of Teachers, who described the assault as “barbaric and inhuman.”
Announcing the rescue, Presidential Spokesperson Bayo Onanuga said the operation was carried out by security agencies without any ransom or concession to the kidnappers.
“Finally, all the kidnapped pupils and teachers in Oriire, Oyo State, have been rescued by our security agencies,” Onanuga stated. He added that eight members of the gang were arrested and are now in the custody of the Department of State Services, while others were neutralised during the operation.
According to him, even the demand to release a notorious gang leader was rejected. “There was no quid pro quo in the rescue, as one of the terrorists, a kingpin whose release was demanded by the kidnappers, is being prosecuted for his atrocities,” he said.
In a video released by the Presidency, one of the rescued teachers broke down in tears while thanking President Bola Tinubu. The children, seen eating biscuits, joined her in chanting, “Thank you, sir.”
“Hello sir, our father, we are grateful. We understand your commitment to our safety and we appreciate all you did for us. We could see your hand in this,” the teacher said.
President Tinubu commended the military, DSS, and Nigeria Police Force for the successful operation, describing it as a major relief for the victims, their families, and the nation. He directed emergency agencies to work with the Oyo State Government to provide medical care and support to the rescued persons.
Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde also expressed joy over the development. “It is such a big relief for all of us. Right now, I am overjoyed and can hardly say much,” he told Channels Television.
The President further urged the Oyo State Government to strengthen security around schools to prevent a recurrence, as the trauma of the abduction continues to weigh on teachers, parents, and communities across the country.
Security agencies say a full account of the rescue operation will be provided soon.
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