By Sadiq Abdulfatah

Schoolchildren and teachers abducted from Community High School, Ahoro-Esiele, in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State have regained their freedom after spending 56 days in captivity.

Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga announced the development in a statement, saying the victims were rescued through a security operation involving the country’s security agencies.

According to him, eight suspected members of the kidnapping gang were arrested during the operation and are currently in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS), while several others were neutralised.

Onanuga said the rescue was carried out without negotiating with or making concessions to the abductors. He added that a suspected gang leader whose release had been demanded by the kidnappers remains in custody and is facing prosecution.

He noted that security agencies would provide further details of the operation.

President Bola Tinubu welcomed the successful rescue, describing it as a major relief for the victims, their families and the country. He commended the military, the DSS and the Nigeria Police Force for their efforts in securing the release of the abducted pupils and teachers.

The President also sympathised with the victims and their families over the trauma they experienced during the period of captivity.

Tinubu further praised the Oyo State Government for working closely with the Federal Government throughout the rescue operation. He urged the state government to strengthen security around schools to prevent similar incidents in the future.

He also directed emergency response agencies to work with the Oyo State Government to provide the rescued pupils and teachers with medical care and other support needed for their recovery.

Reacting to the development, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde expressed joy over the victims’ release, describing it as a huge relief.

“It is such a big relief for all of us. Right now, I am overjoyed and can hardly say much,” the governor said.

A video shared alongside the statement showed one of the rescued teachers thanking President Tinubu for the successful operation, while the pupils joined in expressing their appreciation.

The victims were abducted on May 15, 2026, when armed men attacked Community High School, Ahoro-Esiele. A school principal, teachers and dozens of pupils were taken away during the incident.

One teacher was killed in the attack, while another was later reportedly murdered in captivity, triggering widespread condemnation and renewed calls for improved security in schools.

The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) described the attack as barbaric and inhuman. The union later organised a nationwide rally to demand the victims’ release, warning that repeated attacks on schools were creating fear among teachers, pupils, parents and communities.

Source: Channels television