A former Department of State Services operative, Seyi Adetayo, has explained how security forces freed abducted pupils and teachers in Oyo State after 56 days in captivity without ransom or prisoner swap.
Speaking on TVC News, Adetayo said intelligence gathering was key. Operatives identified the kidnappers’ relatives, arrested them, recorded videos, and sent the footage to the abductors. This strategy, combined with cutting supply lines and escape routes, pressured the kidnappers until they released the victims.
He stressed that security agents dismantled the group’s support network and used both coercive measures and negotiations to secure freedom.
His comments followed the Presidency’s confirmation of the rescue. Presidential aide Bayo Onanuga said eight suspects were arrested and several others killed. He dismissed reports of negotiation, noting that the kidnappers’ demand for the release of a detained leader was rejected.
After their release, the victims expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu and the security agencies. In a video, one of them thanked the President for his commitment to their safety. Tinubu welcomed the operation and praised the agencies for rescuing the victims alive.
