Eight suspects arrested as abducted Oyo pupils, teachers regain freedom
The schoolchildren and teachers abducted by suspected bandits in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State have been rescued by security operatives, with eight members of the kidnapping gang arrested during the operation.
The rescue was announced on Friday by the presidential spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, who said the victims were freed through a coordinated operation by 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.
He disclosed that eight suspected kidnappers were arrested and are currently in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS), while others were killed during the operation.
According to Onanuga, the rescue was carried out without any concession to the abductors. He said a notorious gang leader whose release had been demanded by the kidnappers remains in custody and is facing prosecution for alleged crimes.
“There was no quid pro quo in the rescue, as one of the terrorists, a kingpin whose release was demanded by the kidnappers, is being prosecuted for his atrocities,” he said.
He added that security agencies would provide a comprehensive account of the operation in due course.
A video released alongside the statement showed a woman believed to be one of the rescued teachers expressing gratitude to President Bola Tinubu and the security agencies for securing their freedom.
Addressing the President, she said: “Mr President, sir, we are grateful. We understand your commitment to our safety and we appreciate all you did for us. We could see your hand in this. Thank you very much.
“Every security operative tried so much, and that is why we are still alive today. We are very grateful to you.”
The video also showed the rescued schoolchildren eating biscuits before joining the teacher in chanting, “Thank you, sir.”
The abduction had sparked concern over the safety of pupils and teachers in the area, adding to growing worries about attacks on schools in parts of the country. Authorities have yet to disclose the identities of the rescued victims or provide further details of the operation.