Army says intelligence-led operation secured release of 44 Oyo school abductees

Summary

The Nigerian Army says coordinated intelligence-led operations led to the release of 44 pupils and teachers abducted from schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

Highlights

• The abductees were taken on 15 May from Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Community High School and L.A. Primary School in Oriire LGA.
• The army said the release followed more than a month of operations targeting the group’s leadership, logistics and informant network.
• Security agencies involved included the Office of the National Security Adviser, SSS, police, NSCDC, the armed forces, Amotekun, vigilantes and hunters.
• The original kidnapping involved 46 people; two teachers died, reducing the number eventually freed to 44.
• President Bola Tinubu praised the security operatives, while Governor Seyi Makinde said no ransom was paid.
• Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun also hailed the operation and said it showed kidnappers would not have safe haven.