UPDATE:Intelligence Operations Forced Release of Kidnapped Oyo Schoolchildren, Army Says
The Nigerian Army says the successful rescue of pupils and teachers abducted in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State was made possible through weeks of coordinated intelligence gathering and joint security operations involving multiple agencies.
The victims were kidnapped on May 15 after armed attackers invaded Baptist Nursery and Primary School in Yawota, Community High School in Ahoro-Esiele, and L.A. Primary School in Ahoro-Esiele. A total of 46 people 39 pupils and seven teachers were taken during the attack.
Two teachers lost their lives during the incident. Adegboye Adesiyan was reportedly killed during the assault on the schools, while Michael Oyedokun was later murdered while being held by the kidnappers. As a result, 44 victims were eventually rescued after spending 56 days in captivity.
In a statement issued by the spokesperson for the Army's 2 Division, Lieutenant Colonel Jonah Danjuma, the military said the operation focused on identifying and dismantling the network responsible for the abductions.
According to the Army, the mission was coordinated by the General Officer Commanding 2 Division, Major General C.R. Nnebeife, with support from the Office of the National Security Adviser, the National Counter Terrorism Centre, the National Intelligence Agency, the Department of State Services, the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Defence Headquarters, Amotekun Corps, local vigilantes, and hunters.
The military said intelligence operations led to the arrest of several suspected members of the criminal network in Oyo State and other parts of the country. The sustained pressure, it added, disrupted the group's activities and ultimately compelled the kidnappers to release the hostages without demanding any conditions.
The Army noted that the operation was carefully planned to ensure the victims were rescued safely while limiting harm to civilians. It also confirmed that security personnel recorded casualties during the operation, although no further details were provided.
The rescued pupils and teachers are receiving medical care before they are reunited with their families through the Oyo State Government.
President Bola Tinubu praised the security agencies for the successful operation, stating that several members of the criminal group were neutralised while eight suspects were taken into custody. He also directed relevant government agencies to provide medical assistance and other support services to the victims.
Governor Seyi Makinde commended the joint security effort, describing the rescue as a major success and reiterating that no ransom was paid to secure the victims' freedom.
Security agencies say follow-up operations are ongoing to apprehend other suspects connected to the abduction and prevent similar attacks in the future.
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