Nigerian Army confirms unconditional release of 44 abducted pupils, teachers in Oyo

The Nigerian Army says 44 pupils and teachers abducted in Oyo State on May 15 have been released unconditionally, ending a two-month ordeal for the victims and their families.

In a statement, the Army said the rescue operation was led by the General Officer Commanding 2 Division, Nigerian Army, Ibadan, Major General CR Nnebeife, working with special units from the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), particularly the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC).

Also involved were the Defence Headquarters, with Special Forces elements from the Nigerian Army, Navy and Air Force, as well as the Nigeria Police, the Department of State Services (DSS), the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC)and other security agencies.

According to the Army, the operation, which ran for more than a month, centred on identifying the terrorist kingpins behind the kidnapping, then dismantling their networks, logistics links, informants and hideouts within the Old Oyo National Park Forest in Oyo State.

The military said the effort led to multiple arrests, both within Oyo State and in other locations across the country.

‘These arrests completely disorganized the group, exerted overwhelming pressure on them and ultimately led the terrorist group to unconditionally release the pupils and teachers. Further operations are to be conducted.

‘It suffices to note that the operations were carefully planned and executed to avoid collateral damages and to equally ensure that the innocent children and teachers were safely rescued.

‘However, there were some casualties on the part of the security forces,’ the statement read.

The Army said the freed pupils and teachers are currently receiving medical attention at an undisclosed hospital and will be handed over to the Oyo State Government in due course for reunification with their families.