The pupils and teachers who were abducted by bandits in Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State have finally regained their freedom, bringing relief to their families and communities after weeks of uncertainty.
The development was confirmed on Friday by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
In a post shared on his verified X (formerly Twitter) account, Onanuga announced that all the victims had been rescued through the efforts of Nigeria’s security agencies.
“Finally, all the kidnapped pupils and teachers in Orire, Oyo have been rescued by our security agencies,” Onanuga wrote.
The announcement marks the end of a tense period during which the victims remained in captivity, with growing concern across the country over their safety.
The abduction had sparked widespread outrage, with parents, education advocates, and civil society groups repeatedly calling on the Federal Government and security agencies to intensify efforts to secure the safe return of the victims.
Before their release, the Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, disclosed that the kidnappers had threatened to kill the abducted pupils and teachers if security forces launched a direct military assault on their hideout. He explained that the military had adopted a strategic approach to avoid endangering the lives of the hostages while continuing rescue efforts.
Although the Presidency has confirmed the successful rescue, details surrounding the operation—including where the victims were found, whether any ransom was paid, and the condition of those rescued—have not yet been officially disclosed.
Security agencies are also yet to release a detailed statement on the circumstances leading to the victims’ freedom.
The successful rescue is expected to renew calls for stronger security around schools, particularly in rural communities where students and teachers have increasingly become targets of kidnappers seeking ransom.
The incident is another reminder of the persistent security challenges facing parts of Nigeria, despite ongoing efforts by the military and other security agencies to curb banditry and kidnapping.
Many Nigerians have welcomed the news on social media, expressing gratitude that the pupils and teachers returned alive while urging the government to ensure that those responsible for the abduction are arrested and prosecuted.
Authorities are expected to provide additional information on the rescue operation in the coming hours.
