Ibadan — Intense pressure from multiple arrests and a sustained security operation has compelled kidnappers to unconditionally release teachers and pupils abducted from Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, the Nigerian military has said.
The victims, who were kidnapped on May 15, 2026, regained their freedom on July 10 after more than a month of coordinated efforts that dismantled the criminal network operating in and around the Old Oyo National Park.
In a statement on Saturday, the military said the operation, led by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 2 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General C.R. Nnebeife, involved a multi-agency collaboration including the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), Defence Headquarters, Special Forces of the Army, Navy and Air Force, Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services (DSS), National Intelligence Agency (NIA), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Amotekun, local vigilantes and hunters.
Lieutenant Colonel Jonah Danjuma, Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations for 2 Division, explained that the focus was on identifying terrorist kingpins, disrupting their logistics, and busting hideouts and informant networks within the forest reserves.
“The arrests completely disorganized the group, exerted overwhelming pressure on them and ultimately led the terrorist group to unconditionally release the pupils and teachers,” the statement said.
The military emphasised that the operation was meticulously planned to safeguard the lives of the hostages while minimising collateral damage. However, it confirmed that some security personnel sustained casualties during the operations, though details were not provided.
The rescued pupils and teachers are currently receiving medical attention at an undisclosed hospital and will soon be handed over to the Oyo State Government for reunification with their families.
Major General Nnebeife commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his strategic guidance and support, and Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde for his cooperation with security agencies. He also acknowledged the contributions of National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, the Minister of Defence, service chiefs, the Inspector-General of Police, and heads of other participating agencies.
The military urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and continue sharing credible intelligence with security forces to sustain the fight against kidnapping and other criminal activities.
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