Released Oyo pupils, teachers thank president Tinubu after 56 days in bandits' captivity

Kidnapped school teachers and pupils released by bandits

The pupils and teachers abducted by suspected bandits in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State have expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu following their release after spending 56 days in captivity.

The victims regained their freedom on Friday, bringing an end to a traumatic ordeal that began on May 15, 2026, when heavily armed gunmen invaded Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota; L.A. Primary School, Esiele; and Community Grammar School in coordinated attacks across Ahoro, Esiele and Yawota communities.

The attackers rounded up pupils and teachers from their classrooms before marching them into the forest. During the attack, one teacher was reportedly killed while another later died in captivity.

Speaking after their release, the freed victims thanked President Tinubu for the efforts that led to their freedom, describing the past eight weeks as one of fear, uncertainty and hardship.

The abductees were reportedly held by suspected bandits in the Old Oyo National Park, where they endured harsh conditions, including hunger, exhaustion and constant threats. During their captivity, videos released by the kidnappers showed distraught pupils and teachers pleading for help, sparking nationwide outrage and renewed concerns over insecurity in schools.

The abduction prompted President Tinubu to order security agencies to intensify rescue operations. The Federal Government also deployed a high-powered delegation to Oriire to reassure residents, while the Inspector-General of Police coordinated intelligence-led efforts to secure the victims' release.

Although the victims have regained their freedom, authorities are yet to disclose the circumstances surrounding their release, including whether any ransom was paid or if the rescue resulted solely from security operations.