Kidnapped pupils and teachers from Orire, Oyo State, have regained their freedom after more than 50 days in captivity, bringing relief to families and residents.
The pupils and school officials abducted during a deadly attack on schools in Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State have finally regained their freedom after spending more than 50 days in captivity.
The development was confirmed on Friday by the Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, who announced that the victims had been safely rescued, bringing an end to weeks of uncertainty for their families and the community.
According to Onanuga, security operatives successfully carried out the rescue operation without yielding to the demands of the kidnappers. He disclosed that eight suspected kidnappers were arrested during the operation and are currently in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS), while several others were killed.
He further revealed that the abductors had demanded the release of one of their key leaders as a condition for freeing the victims. However, the Federal Government rejected the request because the suspect is already standing trial for serious criminal offences. He added that security agencies would provide a detailed briefing on the operation in due course.
The victims were kidnapped on May 15 after heavily armed gunmen stormed the Local Authority (LA) School, Ahoro-Esinle, and Community Grammar School, Ahoro-Esinle, in Orire Local Government Area.
The attack turned tragic when one teacher was killed by the assailants. The gunmen also abducted several pupils, the school principal, two vice principals, three teachers, and toddlers, triggering nationwide outrage and concerns over the safety of schools.
The incident sparked widespread protests across Nigeria as teachers, labour unions, civil society organisations, and concerned citizens demanded the immediate rescue of the victims. Demonstrations were held in more than a dozen states, with protesters calling on authorities to strengthen security around schools and take stronger action against kidnappers.
The successful rescue has been welcomed as a significant breakthrough, while many Nigerians continue to call for tougher measures to prevent future attacks on educational institutions.
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