BREAKING: Kidnapped Oyo Pupils, Teachers Regain Freedom After Weeks in Captivity
The pupils and teachers abducted during coordinated attacks on schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State have regained their freedom after spending several weeks in captivity.
The development was announced on Friday by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, in a post on his verified X account. He stated that the victims were successfully rescued through the efforts of Nigeria’s security agencies.
The victims were kidnapped on May 15, 2026, when armed assailants invaded Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery and Primary School, and L.A. Primary School in the Esiele and Yawota communities of Oriire LGA. The attackers abducted at least 39 pupils and seven teachers, including a school principal.
The attack claimed the life of teacher Joel Adesiyan, who was reportedly shot while attempting to flee. Another teacher, Michael Oyedokun, was later killed while in captivity.
Although the victims have now been freed, authorities have not disclosed the circumstances surrounding their release or whether any of the kidnappers’ reported demands were met.
The abductors had earlier demanded the release of detained terrorist commanders, payment of ransom, two Hilux vehicles, and the implementation of Sharia-related laws as conditions for freeing the captives.
Throughout the crisis, the Oyo State Government maintained its position that it would not negotiate with or pay ransom to the kidnappers.
The abduction sparked widespread public concern and prompted the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) in Oyo State to embark on a month-long strike, which was later suspended after assurances from security agencies that efforts to rescue the victims were progressing.
The incident also attracted federal attention, with military and police authorities repeatedly assuring Nigerians that coordinated operations were underway to secure the safe return of all those held captive.
