Families of pupils and teachers abducted from schools in Oyo State have finally heaved a sigh of relief after Nigerian security agencies rescued all the victims following 56 days in captivity.
The rescue was confirmed on Friday July 10 by the Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, who announced that everyone kidnapped during the attack in Oriire Local Government Area had regained their freedom.
The victims were kidnapped on May 15, 2026, when heavily armed gunmen stormed 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 coordinated attack, at least 39 pupils and seven teachers, including a school principal, were abducted by the assailants.
The incident claimed the life of teacher Joel Adesiyan, who was reportedly shot while trying to escape. Another teacher, Michael Oyedokun, was later beheaded in captivity, sparking widespread outrage and renewed concerns over insecurity in schools.
The kidnappers reportedly made certain demands in exchange for the captives, but the Oyo State Government maintained throughout the ordeal that it would not negotiate with the kidnappers or pay ransom for the victims’ freedom. Security agencies subsequently intensified operations in the area.
The safe return of the pupils and teachers has brought relief to families, school communities and residents of Oriire, as well as the nation as a whole.
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