Security forces rescue 46 abducted Oyo students and teachers

After more than 55 days in captivity, 39 schoolchildren and seven teachers abducted in Oyo State have been rescued in a coordinated security operation, officials announced on Friday, July 10, 2026. The successful rescue has been hailed as a significant breakthrough in Nigeria's ongoing struggle with widespread insecurity.

The victims were freed following a joint operation involving the Nigerian Army, Air Force, Department of State Services, and the Nigeria Police Force. Presidential Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, confirmed the rescue, stating that eight suspected kidnappers were arrested and are in DSS custody, while several other members of the criminal group were killed during the operation. Onanuga dismissed reports of any ransom payment, insisting the government made no concessions to the abductors.

The pupils and teachers were kidnapped on May 15 after gunmen, suspected to be members of the Ansaru terrorist group, attacked three schools in the Yawota and Ahoro-Esiele communities of Oriire Local Government Area. The attack claimed the life of a teacher, Michael Oyedokun, and another teacher was reportedly killed in captivity. The incident triggered...