Abducted Oyo Pupils, Teachers Regain Freedom – Presidency
All pupils and teachers abducted in Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State have been freed, the Presidential Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, confirmed on Friday, July 10, 2026.
Posting on his verified X account, Onanuga said security forces rescued the victims and arrested eight suspected kidnappers, who are now in DSS custody.
He added that some of the abductors were neutralised during the operation. According to Onanuga, the rescue did not involve any exchange for a detained criminal – a key suspect the kidnappers had demanded be released is currently being prosecuted for earlier crimes.
He said security agencies will provide a full account soon.
The victims had been held for more than 50 days, a kidnapping that attracted nationwide attention and criticism over the government’s handling of the case.
Authorities have not yet disclosed how the rescue was carried out, whether a ransom was paid, or the exact events that led to the release.
More information is expected from the Oyo State government and security operatives in the coming hours.
