Following an intelligence-led carefully planned and executed operations, on 10 July 2026, troops of the Nigerian Army, led by the General Officer Commanding 2 Division, Nigerian Army, Ibadan, Major General CR Nnebeife, in collaboration with special units from the Office of the National Security Adviser specifically the National Counter Terrorism Center and other security agencies as well as local vigilantes/hunters/Amotekuns, in a well coordinated operation rescued a total of 44 pupils and teachers kidnapped by terrorists from Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State on 15 May 2026.
A statement by the Acting Deputy Director, 2 Division Army Public Relations Lt Colonel Danjuma Jonah indicates that the operations, which lasted for more than a month, focused on identifying the terrorist kingpins that masterminded the kidnapping, bursting and dismantling their networks and logistics links, including their informants and hideouts located within the Old Oyo National Park Forest, Oyo State.
It further adds that multiple arrests were made within Oyo State and in other locations across some States in the Country.
These arrests completely disorganized the group, exerted overwhelming pressure on them and ultimately led the terrorist group to unconditionally release
The statement notes that the operations were carefully planned and executed to avoid collateral damages and to equally ensure that the innocent children and teachers were safely rescued.
However, there were some casualties on the part of the security forces.
It also discloses that the pupils and teachers are currently receiving medical attention in an undisclosed hospital and will be handed over to the Oyo State Government in due course to reunited with their families.
The statement applauds all the participating agencies and appreciate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for all the provisions that made the operations a huge success.
It however urges all to remain vigilant and continue to support all security agencies by providing timely and credible information that would assist in the ongoing efforts to safeguard lives and properties across Nigeria.
