All the schoolchildren and teachers abducted during the May 15 attack on schools in Ahoro-Esiele community, Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, have been released after spending nearly two months in captivity.
Gatekeepers News reports that the victims, comprising 39 pupils and seven teachers, were kidnapped when armed men invaded Baptist Nursery and Primary School, L.A. Primary School and Community Grammar School in the community.
The release comes after weeks of sustained rescue efforts by security agencies and growing public concern over the victims’ prolonged captivity.
Confirming the development, presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga said the victims were rescued through a coordinated security operation. He disclosed that eight members of the kidnapping gang were arrested and are currently in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS), while several others were neutralised.
Onanuga added that the operation was carried out without any exchange or concession to the kidnappers, noting that a notorious gang leader whose release had been demanded by the abductors remains in custody and is being prosecuted for his alleged crimes. He said security agencies would provide a detailed account of the rescue operation.
Reacting to the development, President Bola Tinubu commended the military, the DSS and the Nigeria Police Force for securing the victims’ freedom after 56 days in captivity. He described the successful operation as a major relief for the victims, their families and the nation, while sympathising with the children and teachers over the trauma they endured.
The President also praised the Oyo State Government for its cooperation throughout the operation and directed relevant emergency agencies to work with the state government to provide the rescued victims with medical care, counselling and other relief support.
Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde also welcomed the news, expressing relief over the victims’ release. He described the development as a great moment of joy for the state after weeks of anxiety and uncertainty.
