By: Manoah Kikekon
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| Kidnapped Oyo pupils and teachers |
OYO STATE, NIGERIA – The nation breathed a collective sigh of relief on Friday, July 10, 2026, as the Presidency confirmed the rescue of all pupils and teachers abducted from three schools in the Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State. The victims, who spent 56 days in captivity following their abduction on May 15, have finally been reunited with their families.
The rescue was announced by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, who confirmed the successful outcome of a coordinated operation led by federal security agencies. "Finally, all the kidnapped pupils and teachers in Orire, Oyo, have been rescued by our security agencies," Onanuga stated in a verified post on X.
Details of the operation reveal that the rescue was achieved through a swift and strategic maneuver by the military, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Police Force. Presidential officials have confirmed that eight members of the kidnapping gang were arrested during the operation and are currently being held in DSS custody, while several other assailants were neutralized.
Significantly, the Presidency emphasized that the rescue was conducted without any "quid pro quo." The abductors had previously demanded the release of a high-profile terror kingpin in exchange for the hostages a demand the Federal Government categorically rejected.
Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, expressed his profound joy at the news, describing the return of the schoolchildren as a "big relief" for the entire state. In an interview following the announcement, Governor Makinde commended the collaboration between various security agencies and the Federal Government.
"It's such a big relief for all of us and for those that have been waiting for the past 57 days," the Governor said. "I want to say thank you to our service commanders, the Nigeria Police, the DSS, the military, and the high command, and of course the President, for pushing really hard to have this done."
Among the survivors was Rachael Alamu, the principal of Community High School, Ahoro-Esiele, who shared a touching video message of gratitude following the rescue. "President, sir, our father, we are grateful. We understand your commitment to our safety and we appreciate all you did for us," she said, visibly moved. "The security operatives tried so much, and that is why we are still alive today."
The abduction, which targeted Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Community High School, and L.A. Primary School, had triggered national outrage and concern over the safety of pupils in rural communities. With the victims now safe and receiving necessary medical and psychosocial support, the focus shifts to ensuring their reintegration and strengthening school security protocols across the state.