Trapped by Arrests Led Kidnappers to Release Oyo Teachers and Students, Says Army

A month-long, intelligence-driven operation involving the Nigerian military and multiple security agencies has led to the rescue of 44 pupils and teachers abducted by terrorists in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

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The victims, who were kidnapped on May 15, 2026, regained their freedom on July 10 following what the Nigerian Army described as a carefully planned and coordinated operation targeting terrorist camps and logistics networks within the Old Oyo National Park and other locations across the country.

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‎In a statement issued on Friday by the Acting Deputy Director, 2 Division Army Public Relations, Lt. Col. Danjuma Jonah Danjuma, the operation was led by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 2 Division, Major General C.R. Nnebeife, in collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser, the National Counter Terrorism Centre, Defence Headquarters, the Armed Forces, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services, the National Intelligence Agency, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, as well as local vigilantes, hunters and Amotekun operatives.

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According to Danjuma, “the operation focused on identifying and dismantling the terrorist network responsible for the abduction, including its kingpins, informants, logistics chain and hideouts within the Old Oyo National Park.”

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‎He disclosed that several suspects were arrested in Oyo State and other parts of the country, a development it said disrupted the criminal network and mounted sustained pressure on the kidnappers, ultimately compelling them to release the victims unconditionally.

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‎It added that the rescue mission was executed with utmost caution to ensure the safe recovery of the pupils and teachers while avoiding collateral damage. However, the Army confirmed that some security personnel sustained casualties during the operation, without providing further details.

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‎The rescued victims are currently receiving medical attention at an undisclosed hospital and will be handed over to the Oyo State Government for reunification with their families.

The GOC commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for providing strategic direction and support for the operation, while also appreciating Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, the National Security Adviser, the Minister of Defence, the Chief of Defence Staff, the service chiefs, the Inspector-General of Police, the Directors-General of the DSS and NIA, and other security agencies for their collaboration.

‎The Army also thanked Nigerians and the media for their support and urged members of the public to remain vigilant by providing timely and credible intelligence to security agencies to strengthen ongoing efforts to protect lives and property across the country.