There is widespread relief across Oyo State following the release of the schoolchildren and teachers who were abducted by gunmen during a deadly attack on schools in Oriire Local Government Area. The victims have finally regained their freedom after spending several weeks in captivity, bringing an emotional end to an incident that shocked Nigerians and triggered nationwide calls for urgent action.
The victims were kidnapped on May 15, 2026, when heavily armed attackers invaded Baptist Nursery and Primary School in Yawota, L.A. Primary School, and Community Grammar School in Esiele. During the attack, one teacher was reportedly killed while dozens of pupils and teachers were taken into the Old Oyo National Park by the armed men.
The abduction sparked widespread outrage from parents, education stakeholders, civil society organisations, religious groups and ordinary Nigerians who demanded the immediate and unconditional release of the victims. The incident also forced the Nigeria Union of Teachers to embark on industrial action while several advocacy groups staged protests, insisting that schools should remain safe places for learning...READ THE FULL ARTICLE HERE .
Confirming the development, presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga announced that all the abducted pupils and teachers had regained their freedom, ending weeks of uncertainty and anxiety for their families. Their release has been welcomed with joy by residents, who had endured months of fear and emotional distress while hoping for positive news.
Just days before the breakthrough, the Oyo State Government had dismissed reports claiming that ransom was paid to secure the victims’ freedom. The government maintained that no ransom was paid and attributed the successful outcome to the coordinated efforts of security agencies and other stakeholders working tirelessly to rescue the victims safely.
The successful release has renewed calls for stronger security around schools, particularly in rural communities that remain vulnerable to attacks by armed criminals. Many Nigerians believe the incident once again highlights the urgent need for improved intelligence gathering, better protection for educational institutions and sustained efforts to prevent future kidnappings.
Although the victims have now returned to freedom, attention is expected to shift toward their medical care, psychological support and rehabilitation as they recover from the trauma of their ordeal. Families, community leaders and education advocates have also urged governments at all levels to strengthen school security measures to ensure that such a tragic incident never happens again.
