Series of detentions forced kidnappers to free abducted Oyo educators and students – Armed Forces

The military has disclosed that a series of arrests made in Oyo State and other parts of the country led to the unconditional release of kidnapped pupils and teachers from Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo, as the group's activities were severely disrupted.

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The victims, who were taken captive on May 15, 2026, were rescued on July 10, following a highly coordinated operation that involved multiple security and intelligence agencies, according to the military.

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This operation was spearheaded by Major General C.R. Nnebeife, the General Officer Commanding 2 Division, Nigerian Army, Ibadan, in collaboration with various agencies, including the Office of the National Security Adviser, the National Counter Terrorism Centre, and the Defence Headquarters.

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The operation also drew support from the Special Forces of the Nigerian Army, Navy, and Air Force, as well as the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services, the National Intelligence Agency, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, among others.

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Additionally, local vigilantes, hunters, and Amotekun played a role in the operation, which focused on dismantling the kidnappers' network and logistics chain within the Old Oyo National Park and other locations, according to Lieutenant Colonel Jonah Danjuma, the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 2 Division.

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The statement issued by Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma explained that the operation, which lasted over a month, aimed to identify and apprehend the terrorist kingpins behind the kidnapping, as well as disrupt their networks and logistics links.

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The military stated that the arrests made during the operation completely disorganized the kidnappers, exerting overwhelming pressure on them and ultimately leading to the unconditional release of the pupils and teachers.

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The operation was carefully planned to ensure the safe recovery of the victims while minimizing collateral damage, with the military taking steps to avoid harming innocent civilians.

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Although the statement mentioned that there were casualties on the part of the security forces, it did not provide further details on the matter.

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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 once they are stable.

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The General Officer Commanding 2 Division, Major General C.R. Nnebeife, commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for providing strategic guidance and support for the operation, as well as Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde for his support to security agencies.

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The GOC also acknowledged the contributions of various high-ranking officials, including the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, and the Minister of Defence, among others, for ensuring effective coordination throughout the operation.

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The military expressed gratitude to the media and Nigerians for their support and urged the public to remain vigilant and continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies to enhance ongoing efforts to protect lives and property across the country.