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The Nigerian Army has disclosed that the rescue of 44 abducted pupils and teachers from Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State was the result of a month-long intelligence-led operation involving multiple security agencies and local security groups. According to a statement by the Acting Deputy Director, 2 Division Army Public Relations, Lt. Col. Danjuma Danjuma, the operation was led by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 2 Division, Maj. Gen. Chinedu Nnebeife, and culminated in the victims’ safe rescue after 56 days in captivity.
The Army said the mission brought together personnel from the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), Defence Headquarters, the Nigerian Army, Navy, Air Force, Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services (DSS), National Intelligence Agency (NIA), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), as well as Amotekun Corps, local vigilantes and hunters. Authorities explained that sustained intelligence gathering, the arrest of suspected terrorists and their informants, and coordinated pressure on the criminal network forced the kidnappers to release the hostages. During the operation, eight suspected kidnappers were arrested, while several others were killed.
The Army confirmed that all 44 rescued pupils and teachers were freed without collateral harm and are currently receiving medical care before being reunited with their families and handed over to the Oyo State Government. It also acknowledged that some security personnel sustained casualties during the operation, describing their sacrifices as a testament to the commitment of Nigeria’s security forces in combating terrorism and ensuring the safe return of the victims.
