Oyo State school kidnapping victims rescued after 56 days

Pupils and teachers abducted from schools in Oyo State, Nigeria, have been rescued after 56 days in captivity, bringing an end to a tense ordeal that had gripped the nation. The rescue was confirmed on July 10, 2026, by presidential and state officials following a coordinated security operation.

Governor Seyi Makinde stated that the immediate priority is reuniting the victims with their families and providing medical, psychological, and social support for their rehabilitation. He expressed profound relief and gratitude for their safe return, commending the military, police, intelligence services, and other security personnel involved. He also paid tribute to those who lost their lives during the mission.

The abduction occurred on May 15 when armed men attacked three schools in the Ahoro-Esinele and Yawota communities within the Oriire Local Government Area. More than 40 pupils, students, and teachers were taken. During the initial attack, one teacher was killed, and another was reportedly murdered later in captivity, sparking widespread public outrage and concern.

Presidential aide Bayo Onanuga confirmed that the joint operation secured the victims' release without making...