By Chuks Oyema-Aziken
A total of 44 pupils and teachers kidnapped in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State have been rescued following a month-long, intelligence-driven security operation involving the military, intelligence services, police, and local security outfits.
The victims were abducted by terrorists on May 15, 2026, and held in hideouts linked to criminal networks operating within the Old Oyo National Park and surrounding forest areas. Their rescue followed a carefully coordinated operation led by troops of the Nigerian Army under the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 2 Division, Major General Chibueze Raphael Nnebeife.
The Acting Deputy Director, 2 Division Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma Jonah Danjuma, disclosed the development in a statement on Friday, noting that the operation involved personnel from the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), Defence Headquarters, special forces from the Nigerian Army, Navy and Air Force, the Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services (DSS), National Intelligence Agency (NIA), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), as well as local vigilantes, hunters and Amotekun operatives.
According to him, the operation focused on identifying and dismantling the terrorist network responsible for the abduction, including its logistics chain, informants and forest-based hideouts. He explained that security operatives conducted extensive intelligence gathering and targeted operations across Oyo State and other parts of the country.
The statement revealed that multiple arrests were made during the operation, leading to the disruption of the group’s activities and placing immense pressure on its members. The sustained security action eventually compelled the kidnappers to release the victims unconditionally.
Danjuma stated that the operation was meticulously planned to ensure the safe recovery of the children and teachers while minimizing collateral damage. He, however, acknowledged that some security personnel were injured or lost their lives during the course of the mission.
The rescued pupils and teachers are currently receiving medical attention at an undisclosed medical facility before being handed over to the Oyo State Government for reunification with their families.
The GOC, on behalf of all participating agencies, expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for providing strategic direction, support and resources that contributed to the success of the operation.
He also commended Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde and residents of the state for their cooperation and support to security agencies throughout the operation.
The military further acknowledged the contributions of the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu; the Minister of Defence; the Chief of Defence Staff; the Chief of Army Staff; other service chiefs; the Inspector-General of Police; the Directors-General of the DSS and NIA; and heads of other security agencies for fostering inter-agency collaboration.
Security authorities assured that follow-up operations are ongoing to track down remaining members of the criminal network and eliminate threats within the affected areas.
They also urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies to enhance ongoing efforts aimed at protecting lives and property across the country.
