Abducted Oyo Pupils, Teachers Regain Freedom - Presidency
Schoolchildren and teachers abducted in Oyo State, Nigeria, have been rescued after 56 days in captivity. The Nigerian government confirmed the rescue was achieved through security operations without any concessions to the kidnappers.
Why it matters
The incident highlights ongoing security challenges in Nigeria and the government's efforts to combat kidnapping-for-ransom syndicates.
The schoolchildren and teachers kidnapped by suspected bandits in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State have been rescued after about 56 days in captivity.
According to a statement by presidential spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, the victims were freed through the efforts of security agencies.
“Finally, all the kidnapped pupils and teachers in Oriire, Oyo State, have been rescued by our security agencies,” Onanuga said.
He disclosed that eight members of the kidnapping gang were arrested during the rescue operation and are now in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS).
Onanuga said the rescue operation did not involve any exchange or concession to the kidnappers, noting that a notorious gang leader whose release had been demanded by the abductors remains in custody and is being prosecuted for his alleged crimes.
He added that security agencies would provide a full account of the operation soon.
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