IBADAN – There was widespread relief on Friday as all the pupils and teachers kidnapped by gunmen from three schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State finally regained their freedom after spending 56 days in captivity.
The victims were kidnapped on May 15, 2026, when armed assailants invaded Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, L.A. Primary School, and Community Grammar School, Esiele, abducting 39 pupils, seven teachers and a two-year-old child.
The incident sparked nationwide outrage and renewed concerns over the safety of schools in Nigeria.
Sadly, one of the abducted teachers, Michael Oyedokun, was reportedly killed shortly after the abduction during an encounter between the kidnappers and security operatives.
During the weeks-long ordeal, the kidnappers were reported to have demanded the release of two detained Boko Haram commanders in exchange for the captives.
However, both the Federal Government and the Oyo State Government maintained that they would not negotiate with terrorists.
Governor Seyi Makinde had earlier revealed that intelligence reports indicated the victims were being held inside the Old Oyo National Park, making rescue efforts particularly challenging because of the difficult forest terrain.
Announcing the successful rescue, the Presidency said security operatives carried out a coordinated operation that led to the release of all the surviving captives.
The operation also resulted in the arrest of eight suspected kidnappers, while several others were neutralised.
President Bola Tinubu welcomed the successful rescue, describing it as a major victory for Nigeria’s security agencies and a moment of relief for the affected families.
The release of the captives brings to an end a traumatic 56-day ordeal that kept parents, relatives and well-wishers across the country in anxious anticipation.
While Nigerians have celebrated the safe return of the victims, the tragedy has once again highlighted the urgent need to strengthen security around schools and rural communities to prevent future attacks.
Timeline
May 15, 2026: Gunmen abduct pupils, teachers and a toddler from three schools in Oriire LGA, Oyo State.
May 16: Teacher Michael Oyedokun is reportedly killed.
June 2026: Authorities disclose intelligence that the victims are being held in Old Oyo National Park.
July 10, 2026:
Security forces successfully rescue all surviving captives after 56 days in captivity. Eight suspects are arrested during the operation.
