Nigeria rescues kidnapped students and teachers after eight weeks

Nigerian security agencies have successfully rescued kidnapped pupils and teachers from the Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, ending their approximately eight-week ordeal in captivity. The Presidency confirmed the operation resulted in the arrest of eight kidnappers and the neutralization of several others. Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga announced the liberation of the abducted students and teachers via his X handle, describing it as the outcome of sustained security operations. During the rescue mission, the arrested kidnappers were taken into the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS). Onanuga explicitly denied reports suggesting that the victims were freed through negotiations or a prisoner exchange, stating, "There was no quid pro quo in the rescue." He added that a key figure demanded for release by the kidnappers is currently facing prosecution for his alleged atrocities. President Bola Tinubu expressed profound happiness over the successful rescue, commending the military, DSS, and police for their round-the-clock efforts over the past 56 days. He noted the rescue was achieved "without any collateral damage." The President acknowledged the anguish experienced by the victims, their families, and the nation. He also commended the Oyo State Government for its cooperation and urged it to enhance school security across the state. Tinubu stated, "I am profoundly happy that our security forces successfully rescued the abducted pupils and teachers from Oriire, Ogbomoso in Oyo State today after a military, police and intelligence-driven operation that neutralised some of the terrorists that perpetrated the evil act and the arrest of eight of them." He emphasized that this operation concluded a "siege and standoff of over 50 days," bringing relief to the nation and affected families. The President conveyed his gratitude to the armed forces and intelligence agencies on behalf of the country.

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Finally, the kidnapped pupils and teachers in Orire, Oyo have been freed by their abductors.