The Nigerian military has confirmed the deployment of special forces and advanced surveillance teams following the abduction of students and teachers in Oyo state.
The Defence Headquarters said the emergency security operation was approved to rescue victims, track down the kidnappers, and restore calm in affected communities.
Moreover, the military revealed that advanced air surveillance technology would now be combined with ground operations to strengthen rescue efforts.
The rescue operation comes after armed attackers abducted dozens of students and teachers from Ahoro Esinele community in Oriire Local Government Area.
According to reports, the attack happened on May 15 and left residents in fear.
Authorities also confirmed that one of the teachers, identified as Michael Oyedokun, was killed during the violent attack.
The Defence Headquarters described the incident as a serious threat to national security and public safety.
Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, disclosed the latest development during a press briefing in Abuja on Tuesday.
He explained that the operation was ordered by the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede.
According to him, security agencies are intensifying efforts to rescue all abducted victims safely.
“We would combine advanced air surveillance technology with ground troops to rescue kidnapped victims in Oyo State,” the military stated.
Furthermore, the Defence Headquarters expressed sympathy to the victims, their families, and residents affected by the attack.
The military also assured Nigerians that efforts were ongoing to restore peace within the troubled communities.
Meanwhile, the Defence Headquarters earlier linked the attackers to suspected members of Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad, also known as JAS.
The group is believed to be a Boko Haram faction that allegedly moved from the North-East into other parts of the country.
However, military authorities insisted that intelligence gathering and coordinated operations had already been strengthened across the state.
In addition, specialised troops and surveillance teams have reportedly been deployed to monitor forests and remote routes linked to criminal activities.
Residents of affected communities have continued to call for stronger security presence after the disturbing attack.
Many parents also expressed deep concern over the safety of students within rural communities across Oyo State.
The Defence Headquarters further assured residents that collaboration with state authorities and local security teams would continue.
According to military officials, every available resource is being mobilised to rescue the victims and arrest those behind the attack.
