Army Explains How Kidnapped Oyo Pupils, Teachers Were Freed

The Nigerian Army says the abducted Oyo pupils and teachers were freed after security forces disrupted the kidnappers’ network through intelligence-led operations, arrests and pressure on the group’s support system.

The explanation gives new detail to the release NaijaTrend earlier covered here, after the victims regained freedom following 56 days in captivity.

Premium Times reported that the Army said the operation led to the unconditional release of 44 pupils and teachers abducted from three schools in Oriire Local Government Area.

The schools were Baptist Nursery and Primary School in Yawota, Community High School in Ahoro-Esinele and L.A. Primary School in Ahoro-Esinele. The abduction took place on May 15, 2026.

The report said 46 people were abducted, made up of 39 pupils and seven teachers. Two teachers, Adegboye Adesiyan and Michael Oyedokun, died before the release, leaving 44 people to regain freedom.

Vanguard reported that the military said several arrests in Oyo State and other parts of the country weakened the group and pushed it to release the captives without conditions.

The operation involved the 2 Division of the Nigerian Army in Ibadan, the Office of the National Security Adviser through the National Counter Terrorism Centre, Defence Headquarters, Special Forces, police, DSS, NIA, NSCDC, Amotekun, local vigilantes and hunters.

Daily Post, citing former DSS operative Seyi Adetayo, reported that security operatives also identified and detained relatives and close associates of the kidnappers as part of the pressure that led to the release.

He said the security teams cut off supply routes and escape channels while combining intelligence work with negotiations.

Sources: Premium Times, Vanguard, Daily Post