A coordinated security operation involving more than 10 agencies has successfully secured the freedom of 44 pupils and teachers who were abducted during the attack on a school in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
The breakthrough came after weeks of intelligence gathering and carefully planned rescue efforts.
The rescue operation, which lasted for about a month, was led by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 2 Division of the Nigerian Army, Major General Obinna Onubogu Nnebeife (CR Nnebeife).
Meanwhile, security officials also dismantled the criminal network believed to be responsible for the kidnapping.
Moreover, several suspects were arrested during the operation, while key hideouts and logistics routes used by the kidnappers were destroyed, and without further details being released about the final phase of the mission.
According to the Nigerian Army, the operation relied heavily on intelligence gathered from multiple security organisations working together.
The rescue mission brought together the Nigerian Army, the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), Defence Headquarters, the Nigerian Navy, the Nigerian Air Force, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Amotekun Corps, local hunters and community vigilantes.
Furthermore, the combined efforts allowed security personnel to track the kidnappers across difficult terrain before closing in on their locations.
According to the Army, the operation resulted in multiple arrests and the destruction of the kidnappers’ support system.
The military stated that the operation successfully dismantled the kidnappers’ network, including informants, supply routes and hideouts hidden inside the Old Oyo National Park.
Consequently, the criminal group was significantly weakened before the captives regained their freedom.
Meanwhile, the rescued pupils and teachers are receiving medical attention to ensure they recover from the traumatic experience.
After medical checks are completed, they will be formally handed over to the Oyo State Government before reuniting with their families.
The latest development is being viewed as a significant victory against terrorism in Oyo State.
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