Troops Tighten Noose on Oyo Kidnappers as Abductors Scale Back Demands ‎

‎Security forces have intensified operations to secure the release of 39 schoolchildren and seven teachers abducted from three communities in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, raising hopes that the victims could soon regain their freedom.
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‎Security sources disclosed that troops and other security agencies have tightened surveillance and blocked suspected escape routes used by the kidnappers, increasing pressure on the group responsible for the abduction.
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‎According to Vanguard, the abductors have reportedly scaled back some of their earlier demands and are now primarily seeking ransom payments as negotiations continue.
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‎The kidnappers had initially demanded the release of two suspected Ansaru commanders — Mahmud Usman, also known as Abu Bara’a or Abbas Mukhtar, and Abubakar Abba, also known as Isah Adam or Mahmud Al-Nigeri — who were arrested by the Department of State Services (DSS) last year.
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‎Investigations indicate that the leader of the kidnapping gang is allegedly a native of Oriire Local Government Area who became radicalised and established links with the Ansaru terrorist group.
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‎Security agencies are continuing coordinated operations aimed at rescuing the victims safely while preventing the suspects from relocating them or escaping from the area.
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‎Authorities have yet to issue an official statement on the latest developments, but security sources expressed optimism that ongoing operations could lead to a success in efforts to secure the release of the abducted pupils and teachers.