Kidnapped Oyo Pupils, Teachers Regain Freedom After Nearly Two Months in Captivity

 

By Abosede Adekunle 

The pupils and teachers abducted by gunmen from three schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State have regained their freedom after spending several weeks in captivity.

The victims, who were kidnapped during coordinated attacks on Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Community Grammar School, and L.A. Primary School in May, were released on Friday, bringing an end to a traumatic ordeal that sparked nationwide outrage and prolonged protests by teachers, parents, and civil society groups.

"In the course of the rescue operation, eight of the kidnappers were arrested and are now in DSS custody, while some of them were neutralised. There was no quid pro quo in the rescue as one of the terrorists, a kingpin, that the kidnappers demanded his release, is being prosecuted for his atrocities. The security agencies will give full account soon" quoted as share on X page of presidential spokesman, Mr Bayo Onanuga

The abduction, which involved dozens of pupils and teachers, forced the closure of schools in the affected communities and prompted the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) to embark on industrial action while demanding the victims' unconditional release. The incident also drew condemnation from President Bola Tinubu, Governor Seyi Makinde, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and other stakeholders who called for intensified rescue efforts.

Security agencies had maintained throughout the operation that efforts were ongoing to secure the safe return of the captives, even as they repeatedly dismissed false reports circulating on social media claiming the victims had earlier been released.

As of the time of filing this report, authorities are yet to disclose the circumstances surrounding the victims' release or whether any ransom was paid. Further details are expected from the Oyo State Government and security agencies.