Eight suspected kidnappers arrested as Presidency says coordinated military and intelligence operation secured victims’ release without concessions.
By Amarachi Odenigbo
Abuja, Nigeria — July 10, 2026
The Federal Government has announced the successful rescue of pupils and teachers abducted from three schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, bringing to an end nearly two months of anxiety for families, educators and communities affected by one of the country’s most disturbing school kidnapping incidents this year.
According to the Presidency, the victims regained their freedom after spending 56 days in captivity, following what officials described as a coordinated operation involving Nigeria’s security agencies.
The operation reportedly led to the arrest of eight suspected kidnappers, while several others were neutralised.
Authorities also stated that the rescue mission was carried out without negotiating or exchanging concessions with the abductors.
Presidency Hails Security Operation
Announcing the development, the Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, commended security agencies for successfully rescuing the victims.
According to him, the operation involved sustained intelligence gathering and coordinated action by security operatives.
“Finally, all the kidnapped pupils and teachers in Oriire, Oyo State, have been rescued by our security agencies,” Onanuga stated.
He disclosed that the arrested suspects are currently in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) for further investigation.
The Presidency further stated that one of the gang leaders allegedly demanded by the kidnappers as a condition for releasing the victims remains in custody and is facing prosecution.
Officials stressed that the government did not negotiate the release of the suspect or make any concessions to secure the victims’ freedom.
Security agencies are expected to provide a comprehensive briefing on the operation in the coming days.
Emotional Moments as Victims Express Gratitude
In a video released after the rescue, one of the teachers, speaking on behalf of the victims, thanked President Bola Tinubu and members of the security agencies for securing their freedom.
The rescued pupils were also seen joining in expressions of appreciation, describing their release as a miracle after weeks in captivity.
The emotional scenes reflected the ordeal endured by the victims during their prolonged detention and the relief felt by their families upon their safe return.
Tinubu Orders Medical Care, Rehabilitation
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu welcomed the successful rescue, describing it as a significant achievement in the government’s ongoing efforts to combat kidnapping and violent crime.
The President praised the military, the Department of State Services, the Nigeria Police Force and other participating security agencies for what he described as their professionalism and resilience throughout the operation.
He also expressed sympathy to the rescued children, teachers and their families for the trauma suffered during the period of captivity.
Recognising the psychological and physical impact of the incident, President Tinubu directed relevant emergency response agencies to work with the Oyo State Government to provide comprehensive medical treatment, counselling and humanitarian support for the victims.
Makinde Welcomes Rescue
Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde described the rescue as a moment of immense relief for the state.
Reacting shortly after the announcement, the governor expressed gratitude that the victims had finally regained their freedom.
“It is such a big relief for all of us. Right now, I am overjoyed,” Makinde said.
He also acknowledged the collaborative efforts between the state and federal governments throughout the rescue process.
How the Abduction Shocked Nigeria
The kidnapping occurred on May 15, 2026, when heavily armed gunmen invaded three schools located in Yawota and Ahoro-Esiele communities in Oriire Local Government Area.
The attackers struck:
- Baptist Nursery and Primary School
- Community Grammar School
- L.A. Primary School
The assault resulted in the abduction of dozens of pupils, teachers and a school principal.
The attack also claimed the life of a teacher during the invasion, while another teacher reportedly died while being held captive.
The incident sparked widespread condemnation across Nigeria and reignited concerns over the safety of schools in vulnerable communities.
Teachers’ Union Raised Alarm
Following the attack, the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) condemned the abduction as barbaric and inhumane.
The union organised protests and nationwide solidarity rallies demanding the immediate rescue of the victims while warning that persistent attacks on educational institutions could seriously disrupt learning nationwide.
Education stakeholders also renewed calls for stronger security architecture around schools, especially in rural communities increasingly targeted by criminal gangs.
Security Challenges Persist
Although the successful rescue represents a significant operational achievement for Nigeria’s security agencies, security analysts note that kidnapping for ransom continues to pose a major threat across several parts of the country.
Experts argue that preventing future attacks will require stronger intelligence gathering, community policing, improved surveillance around schools and sustained prosecution of criminal networks responsible for mass abductions.
The rescue also underscores the continuing importance of collaboration among federal and state security agencies in responding to complex hostage situations.
The safe return of the abducted pupils and teachers offers renewed hope to their families and communities after nearly eight weeks of uncertainty and fear. However, the tragedy also serves as a reminder that school security remains one of Nigeria’s most pressing national security challenges. As investigations continue and the arrested suspects face legal proceedings, many Nigerians will be watching closely to see whether this successful rescue is matched by sustained efforts to dismantle kidnapping networks and strengthen protection for schools across the country.
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