The 39 pupils and seven teachers abducted from schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State have regained their freedom, ending a harrowing 56-day captivity that gripped the nation.
The rescue was confirmed on Friday, July 10, 2026, by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, in a post on his verified X account. “Finally, all the kidnapped pupils and teachers in Orire, Oyo have been rescued by our security agencies,” Onanuga stated.
The victims were kidnapped on May 15, 2026, when heavily armed gunmen stormed Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery and Primary School in Yawota, and L.A. Primary School in the Ahoro-Esinle and Yawota communities. Among those taken was the school principal.
In a follow-up update, Onanuga revealed details of the rescue operation. He said eight suspected kidnappers were arrested during the operation and are now in the custody of the Department of State Services. Several others were neutralised in the process.
Onanuga also dismissed reports that the victims were freed through a prisoner exchange. “There was no quid pro quo,” he said, confirming that one of the terrorist kingpins demanded by the kidnappers remains on trial.
The abductors had initially demanded the release of detained commanders, payment of ransom, two Hilux vehicles, and the implementation of Sharia-related laws. Security sources said recent operational gains forced the group to rethink their demands.
In a video shared by the presidency following their release, the rescued victims expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu and security agencies. “We are grateful, Mr President, sir. We are grateful. We understand your commitment to our safety, and we appreciate all you did for us. We could see it in your heart. Thank you very much,” one of the victims said.
They also commended the security operatives. “Every security operative tried so much and that is why we are still alive now. We are very grateful to you,” another said.
President Tinubu had earlier directed a specialised security unit with advanced rescue capabilities to intensify efforts and approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards in Oyo State to support operations in border communities.
A high-powered Federal Government delegation led by Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, NSA Nuhu Ribadu, IGP Olatunji Disu, and CDS General Christopher Musa had visited Esiele and Yawota communities to assure residents of government’s commitment. “Mr President is deeply troubled by this incident. Whatever it takes, our children and teachers will be brought back home safely,” Gbajabiamila told residents during the visit.
Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde said the safety and wellbeing of the victims remained the foremost priority of his administration and approved a temporary 16-hour curfew in 10 LGAs bordering the Old Oyo National Park to strengthen security operations.
The rescue brings to an end nearly two months of anxiety for families, the school community, and the state, with authorities saying investigations and prosecution of arrested suspects are ongoing.
