Oyo Abduction Rescue Took 56 Days for Victims' Safety

The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, addressed the prolonged rescue operation of schoolchildren and teachers abducted in Oyo State, which lasted 56 days. Disu stated that security agencies delayed the operation to prevent exposing the victims to danger, despite public criticism regarding the slow response.

The abduction occurred in May 2026 when suspected terrorists attacked two schools in Oriire Local Government Area, taking dozens of pupils and teachers. The attackers used a teacher's vehicle for their escape and subsequently set it ablaze.

Disu noted the challenges posed by the area's poor communication and limited security presence. During the operation, police, soldiers, and vigilantes collaborated, with one officer killed while tracking the abductors.

Aerial support from the Nigerian Air Force and police helicopters was deployed. Disu emphasized that the lack of regular updates was a deliberate decision to protect the hostages' safety.