OYO, Nigeria – The pupils and teachers abducted from schools in Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State have regained their freedom after spending close to two months in captivity.
The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, announced the development on Friday in a post on his verified X account.
“Finally, the kidnapped pupils and teachers in Orire, Oyo have been freed by their abductors,” Onanuga wrote.
Authorities had yet to provide details on the circumstances surrounding their release as of the time of filing this report. It also remains unclear whether security operations, negotiations or any other intervention led to their freedom, while there has been no official confirmation on whether a ransom was paid.
The release brings relief to the families of the victims and the wider Oyo State community, who had endured months of anxiety following the abduction.
The victims were kidnapped on May 15, 2026, when armed men attacked a school in Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State. During the attack, several pupils and members of staff were whisked away into a nearby forest, sparking widespread concern across the country.
Following the incident, security agencies, including the military, police and local vigilante groups, launched coordinated search-and-rescue operations, while the Oyo State Government assured residents that every effort was being made to secure the victims’ safe return.
The abduction renewed concerns over attacks on schools in parts of Nigeria and reignited calls for stronger security around educational institutions, particularly in rural communities considered vulnerable to kidnapping and other violent crimes.
The victims’ release marks the end of a months-long ordeal, although security authorities are yet to announce whether any arrests were made or if efforts are continuing to apprehend those responsible for the attack.
