The pupils and teacher abducted in Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State have regained their freedom after being rescued by security agencies.
The development was confirmed on Friday by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, who announced the successful rescue of the victims.
Onanuga disclosed the development in a post on his verified X account, describing the rescue as a major breakthrough in ongoing efforts to combat kidnapping.
“Finally, all the kidnapped pupils and teachers in Orire, Oyo have been rescued by our security agencies,” he wrote.
He, however, did not provide details of the operation or disclose the identities of those involved in the rescue.
The victims’ release has brought relief to their families, residents of Orire and other stakeholders who had expressed concern over their safety since the abduction.
The incident had sparked widespread anxiety in the community, with parents, traditional leaders and residents calling for urgent intervention to secure the safe return of the schoolchildren and their teacher.
Although the victims have now regained their freedom, authorities are yet to reveal whether they were rescued during a security operation, released after negotiations or freed under any other circumstances.
It also remains unclear whether any ransom was paid before their release.
Security agencies are expected to provide further updates as investigations continue to uncover those responsible for the abduction and the circumstances surrounding the victims’ freedom.
The successful rescue comes amid intensified efforts by security agencies to curb kidnapping and other violent crimes across Oyo State and other parts of Nigeria.
The return of the pupils and teacher has eased tension in Orire, with residents expressing hope that authorities will strengthen security measures to prevent similar incidents in schools and communities.
