By Ikugbadi Oluwasegun
The Nigerian Army says 44 pupils and teachers kidnapped in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State have been rescued following a month-long, intelligence-led operation in the Old Oyo National Park and other locations across the country.
This was disclosed In a statement signed by Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma Jonah Danjuma, Acting Deputy Director of 2 Division Army Public Relations. The military said the rescue was carried out on 10 July 2026. The victims were abducted by terrorists on 15 May 2026.
The operation was led by Major General CR Nnebeife, General Officer Commanding 2 Division, Nigerian Army, Ibadan, * It involved joint forces from the Office of the National Security Adviser through the National Counter Terrorism Center, Defence Headquarters, Special Forces from the Army, Navy, and Air Force, the Nigeria Police, DSS, NIA, NSCDC, as well as local vigilantes, hunters, and Amotekun operatives.
According to the statement, troops focused on identifying the kidnapping kingpins, dismantling their logistics networks, and raiding hideouts believed to be within the Old Oyo National Park Forest. Multiple arrests were made in Oyo State and other states, which the military said “completely disorganized the group” and forced the terrorists to unconditionally release the captives.
“The operations were carefully planned and executed to avoid collateral damages and to equally ensure that the innocent children and teachers were safely rescued,” the statement read. “However, there were some casualties on the part of the security forces.”
The rescued pupils and teachers are currently receiving medical attention at an undisclosed hospital and will be handed over to the Oyo State Government for reunification with their families.
Major General Nnebeife, on behalf of the participating agencies, thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR for “strategic guidance and support,” and Governor Seyi Makinde for the state’s cooperation during the period. He also acknowledged the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, the Minister of Defence, Service Chiefs, the Inspector General of Police, and heads of other security agencies.
The Army said further operations are ongoing to track remaining members of the gang and secure other parts of the country. It urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and provide timely information to security agencies.
