By Peace Udugba
The 39 pupils and seven teachers abducted from three schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State have regained their freedom after spending nearly two months in captivity.
The development was announced on Friday by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, in a post on X.
“Finally, the kidnapped pupils and teachers in Oriire, Oyo, have been freed by their abductors,” Onanuga wrote.
As of the time of filing this report, no official details had been provided on the circumstances surrounding their release, whether any ransom was paid, or the medical condition of the victims. Security agencies are also yet to issue a formal statement.
The victims were abducted on May 15, 2026, when heavily armed gunmen invaded Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, along with two other schools in Esinle, Oriire Local Government Area. The attackers forcefully marched 39 pupils and seven teachers into a nearby forest.
The incident sparked widespread condemnation across the country and triggered coordinated rescue efforts involving multiple security agencies operating in Oyo State and neighbouring states.
Speaking earlier this week, the Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa, revealed that the kidnappers were using the schoolchildren as bargaining tools to demand the release of some of their commanders being held by the military.
In a preview of an interview with News Central, the Defence Minister said the abductors threatened to kill the children if security forces attempted to rescue them by force.
He also renewed his call for tougher punishment for kidnapping, arguing that the country’s laws should serve as a stronger deterrent. Gen. Musa reiterated his support for the death penalty for convicted kidnappers.
The release of the victims brings relief to their families, schools and residents after weeks of anxiety and uncertainty.
