Relief swept across Nigeria as security forces freed pupils and teachers abducted nearly two months ago in Oriire, Oyo State.
Earlier, armed men had stormed schools in Esiele and Yawota on May 15, 2026, sparking outrage nationwide.
Since then, families and communities had waited anxiously for news.
After the rescue, Mrs. Rachael Folawe Alamu, principal of Community High School and other victims thanked President Bola Tinubu and security agencies for saving lives.
Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga explained that the rescue involved the military, DSS, police and other agencies.
Onanuga also disclosed that no ransom was paid and no prisoner swap occurred, and eight kidnappers are now in DSS custody, while others were neutralised.
President Tinubu praised the operation as a major victory and promised justice for the victims and for Mr. Michael Oyedokun, who was killed during the attack. He also directed emergency agencies to provide medical care and counselling for the freed captives.
Governor Seyi Makinde described the release as a huge relief. In addition, he reaffirmed Oyo State’s policy against ransom payments, saying the success proved that resilience and principled leadership can defeat criminal groups.
Military sources revealed that the Defence Headquarters‑led task force disrupted the terrorists’ logistics and communication networks. Consequently, sustained pressure fractured their cohesion and forced them to abandon the hostages.
Finally, the rescued victims are receiving medical and psychological support before reuniting with their families.
