Oyo Children and Teachers Freed After 57 Days of Captivity

On May 15, 2026, children and teachers were abducted from the Baptist Nursery and Primary School in Oriir Local Government Area, Oyo State, leading to national outrage over school security. After 57 days, they were freed through a joint security operation involving the military, Department of State Services (DSS), and police, which resulted in the arrest of eight suspects.

President Bola Tinubu expressed profound delight at the safe rescue, describing it as a major victory for national security. He emphasized that no ransom was paid and no prisoner swap occurred during the operation.

Tinubu also acknowledged the trauma experienced by the victims and their families and commended the Oyo State government for its cooperation throughout the rescue efforts. Governor Seyi Makinde described the victims' freedom as a huge relief for families and the nation.

The operation aimed to weaken the terrorist network responsible for the abduction and ensure justice for the victims, including the murder of teacher Michael Oyedokun during the incident.