Kidnapped Oyo Pupils, Teachers Freed After 56 Days

Pupils and teachers kidnapped from schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State have regained freedom after 56 days in captivity.

The victims were taken on May 15 when gunmen attacked schools in the area, including Community High School, Ahoro-Esiele. Their release follows weeks of pressure from families, teachers and residents. NaijaTrend had earlier reported the security concerns around the abduction here.

Bayo Onanuga, special adviser on information and strategy to President Bola Tinubu, announced the release on Friday and said security agencies rescued the pupils and teachers.

Daily Trust reported that 46 pupils and teachers were abducted in the May attack. It also reported that one teacher, Michael Oyedokun, was later killed by the kidnappers.

In a video cited by Vanguard, Rachael Alamu, the principal of Community High School, thanked the president and security operatives after the release. Premium Times reported that Oyo State Commissioner of Police Olugbenga Abimbola confirmed the development but said security agencies were still compiling details.

The abduction had sparked protests by teachers and renewed fears about communities around the Old Oyo National Park, which security agencies have linked to kidnapping gangs.

Sources: Vanguard, Daily Trust, Premium Times