Nigerian security agencies have rescued teachers and pupils abducted from schools in the south-western state of Oyo nearly two months ago, according to the Presidency.
Presidential spokesperson Mr Bayo Onanuga announced the development on Friday, stating that all those kidnapped during the attack had been freed through a coordinated security operation.
In a statement accompanying photographs and a video of some of the rescued victims, Onanuga said eight suspected kidnappers were arrested during the operation and are currently in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria’s domestic intelligence agency.
He stated that several other suspects were killed during the operation.
According to Onanuga, no ransom or prisoner exchange was involved in securing the victims’ release.
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He said one of the kidnappers had demanded the release of an alleged gang leader currently facing prosecution, but the request was rejected.
“There was no quid pro quo in the rescue operation, as the kingpin whose release was demanded by the kidnappers is being prosecuted for his alleged crimes,” he said.
Onanuga added that the security agencies would provide a comprehensive account of the operation in due course.
The victims, including teachers, pupils and a toddler, were abducted on 15 May 2026 when heavily armed gunmen attacked Community High School, Ahoro-Esinle, and a nearby Baptist school in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, abducting 46 people.
The incident drew widespread concern and renewed calls for stronger security measures to protect schools and communities from kidnapping and other violent crimes.
