The family of Lt. Felix Ademe Isaac, the 28-year-old Nigerian Army officer killed during a rescue operation in Oyo State, says it is struggling to recover from his death.
Isaac died on July 10, 2026, while leading troops during an operation to rescue abducted teachers and pupils.
His father, Mr Isaac Alabura, described him as the “hope of the family and the community.”
Gunmen abducted teachers and pupils from three schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State on May 15, 2026.
The affected schools were Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota; Community Grammar School, Esiele; and LA Primary School.
The attackers took the victims into a forest after the abduction. Security forces later launched a rescue operation which freed the victims after 56 days in captivity.
More than 10 security agencies took part in the mission with Major General Chinedu Ralph Nnebeife, the General Officer Commanding 2 Division of the Nigerian Army leading the operation.
Some reports said his convoy hit explosives planted by terrorists in Oyo National Park, others claimed he stepped on a landmine allegedly planted by Ansaru fighters.
The Nigerian Army confirmed casualties among security personnel. However, the Army has not provided details about how Isaac died.
Alabura spoke at the family’s residence in Bachure Quarters, Yola, Adamawa State.
He said Isaac’s death had caused deep pain for the family. The retired military officer described his son as a promising officer.
He said the family expected Isaac to rise through the military ranks.
“It is natural to feel pain whenever you lose someone, even if it is an enemy. How much more a brilliant, young officer whom our family and community looked up to?” he said.
Alabura also complained about the lack of official information about his son’s death. He said neither the military authorities nor the Oyo State Government explained the circumstances surrounding the incident.
However, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde praised the security forces involved in the rescue mission expressing gratitude for the safe return of the abducted teachers and pupils.
Makinde also honoured security personnel who died during the operation.
“May the souls of those who paid the ultimate price rest in peace, and may God comfort their families,” he said.
