All the schoolchildren and teachers abducted by suspected bandits in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State have been successfully rescued through a coordinated operation by Nigeria’s security agencies.
The development was confirmed by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, who announced that the victims were freed without yielding to the kidnappers’ demands.
“Finally, all the kidnapped pupils and teachers in Oriire, Oyo State, have been rescued by our security agencies,” Onanuga stated.
According to him, the operation also led to the arrest of eight members of the kidnapping syndicate, who are currently in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS), while several others were neutralised during the operation.
Onanuga emphasized that the rescue was achieved without any negotiation or concession to the abductors. He revealed that a notorious gang leader, whose release had been demanded by the kidnappers, remains in custody and is facing prosecution for his alleged crimes.
“There was no quid pro quo in the rescue, as one of the terrorists, a kingpin whose release was demanded by the kidnappers, is being prosecuted for his atrocities. The security agencies will give a full account soon,” he said.
A video released alongside the statement captured emotional moments as one of the rescued teachers expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the security agencies for securing their freedom.
Addressing the President, the teacher said:
“Mr President, sir, we are grateful. We appreciate your commitment to our safety and everything you did for us. We could see your hand in this. Every security operative tried so much, and that is why we are still alive today. Thank you very much.”
The rescued pupils, seen eating biscuits after their ordeal, joined their teacher in chanting, “Thank you, sir,” in appreciation of the successful rescue.
Security agencies are expected to provide a comprehensive briefing on the rescue operation in the coming days.
