Relief and celebration swept across Oyo State on Friday as the teachers and pupils abducted from schools in Oriire Local Government Area regained their freedom after spending about 56 days in captivity.
The victims were rescued through coordinated security operations, ending weeks of anxiety for their families, school communities and residents who had waited for their safe return.
Confirming the development, presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga announced that the pupils and teachers had been successfully freed through the efforts of Nigeria’s security agencies.
“Finally, all the kidnapped pupils and teachers in Oriire, Oyo State, have been rescued by our security agencies,” Onanuga said in a statement.
Videos shared shortly after the rescue captured emotional scenes as parents, relatives and well-wishers welcomed the victims home with tears, prayers and celebrations following nearly two months of uncertainty.
The Oyo State Government also confirmed the victims’ release, describing it as a major breakthrough that underscored the effectiveness of coordinated security efforts and the resilience demonstrated throughout the period of the abduction.
Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, said the government was delighted that the pupils and teachers had safely regained their freedom.
“We are happy to report to our people in Oyo State that our children and teachers at Oriire have been released from captivity,” Oyelade said, while commending security agencies for their commitment to securing the victims’ freedom.
Governor Seyi Makinde described the development as a huge relief not only for Oyo State but for the entire country.
He also reiterated his administration’s position against the payment of ransom, maintaining that strengthening security institutions remains the sustainable approach to tackling kidnapping and other violent crimes.
The pupils and teachers were abducted in May when armed attackers stormed three schools in Oriire Local Government Area, an incident that heightened concerns over the safety of schools in southwestern Nigeria.
During the rescue operation, eight suspected kidnappers were reportedly arrested, while several others were neutralised by security operatives.
The successful rescue has brought renewed hope to affected families, even as many Nigerians continue to call for stronger measures to improve security around schools and prevent similar incidents in the future.
