Security Forces Intensify Rescue of Abducted Schoolchildren

Security operatives are intensifying their rescue efforts for 39 abducted schoolchildren and seven teachers from the Baptist Nursery Primary School in Yawota, Oriire Local Government Area, Oyo State, following a brazen attack on May 15, 2026. Former Nigerian head of state Abdulsalami Abubakar has urged support for the Nigerian Armed Forces in the fight against terrorism.

Security sources indicate that the terrorists are believed to be hiding in a national park forest area, and efforts are being made to surround their hideout. The terrorists have reportedly resorted to desperate tactics, including the killing of an abducted teacher, to blackmail authorities into halting rescue operations.

Their demands include the release of detained terrorist commanders, payment of ransom, and provision of vehicles. The Nigerian Armed Forces, under President Bola Tinubu's administration, have recorded significant successes against terrorist groups, including Ansaru, Boko Haram, and ISWAP, with 168 high-profile terrorist commanders neutralized in recent operations.