Security Forces Rescue 44 Abducted Pupils, Teachers After Weeks-Long Joint Operation in Oyo
The Nigerian Army has announced the successful rescue of 44 pupils and teachers abducted by terrorists from Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, following a coordinated intelligence-led operation involving multiple security agencies.
According to a statement issued by the Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, 2 Division, Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma Jonah Danjuma, the victims, who were kidnapped on May 15, 2026, were rescued on July 10, 2026, after an extensive operation led by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 2 Division, Major General C.R. Nnebeife.
The operation brought together personnel from the Nigerian Army, the Office of the National Security Adviser through the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), Defence Headquarters, Special Forces of the Nigerian Army, Navy and Air Force, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), as well as local vigilantes, hunters and the Amotekun Corps.
The military disclosed that the operation, which lasted for more than a month, focused on identifying and dismantling the terrorist network responsible for the abduction. Security forces targeted the group’s kingpins, logistics networks, informants and hideouts located within the Old Oyo National Park forest.
As part of the operation, several suspects were arrested in Oyo State and other parts of the country. The arrests reportedly disrupted the terrorist network, mounted significant pressure on the kidnappers and ultimately compelled them to unconditionally release all the abducted pupils and teachers. The Army added that follow-up operations are ongoing to apprehend other members of the criminal network.
The statement noted that the rescue mission was carefully planned and executed to ensure the safe recovery of the victims while avoiding collateral damage. However, it confirmed that some members of the security forces sustained casualties during the operation.
The rescued pupils and teachers are currently receiving medical attention at an undisclosed hospital and will be handed over to the Oyo State Government for reunification with their families after medical evaluation.
On behalf of all participating agencies, Major General Nnebeife expressed profound appreciation to President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his strategic leadership, support and the resources provided, which contributed significantly to the success of the operation.
The GOC also thanked Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde and the people of the state for their unwavering support to security agencies throughout the operation.
He further commended the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, the Minister of Defence, the Chief of Defence Staff, the Chief of Army Staff, other Service Chiefs, the Inspector General of Police, the Directors-General of the DSS and NIA, and heads of other security agencies for their collaboration, professionalism and seamless coordination throughout the mission.
The Army equally appreciated media organisations and Nigerians for their patience, support and confidence in the country’s security architecture. It urged citizens to remain vigilant and continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies to strengthen ongoing efforts to protect lives and property across the nation.
