The pupils and teachers abducted from three schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State have regained their freedom after spending several weeks in captivity. The victims were rescued on Friday, bringing relief to their families, the Oyo State Government and many Nigerians who had followed the case since the attack in May.
The development was announced by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, who confirmed that security agencies secured the release of all the kidnapped pupils and teachers. However, officials have yet to provide full details on how the rescue was carried out or whether any conditions were met before the victims were freed.
The abduction occurred on May 15, 2026, when armed men invaded Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery and Primary School, and L.A. Primary School in the Esiele and Yawota communities of Oriire Local Government Area. During the attack, 39 pupils and seven teachers, including a school principal, were taken away by the gunmen.
The incident turned deadly as one teacher, Joel Adesiyan, was killed while trying to escape during the attack. Another teacher, Michael Oyedokun, later lost his life while being held by the kidnappers.
During the period of captivity, reports indicated that the abductors made several demands before agreeing to release the victims. These reportedly included the release of detained terrorist leaders, payment of ransom, provision of two Hilux vehicles and the implementation of Sharia-related laws.
Despite the pressure from the kidnappers, the Oyo State Government maintained its position that it would not pay ransom for the victims’ release. Security agencies continued rescue operations while government officials repeatedly assured the public that efforts to free those abducted were ongoing.
The attack sparked widespread concern across the country and prompted the Nigeria Union of Teachers to embark on a month-long strike in Oyo State to demand the safe return of the victims. The industrial action was later suspended in July after authorities assured the union that progress was being made.
The successful rescue has now brought an end to one of the state’s most disturbing school kidnapping cases, although authorities are still expected to provide more information about the operation that secured the victims’ freedom.