The harrowing 56-day abduction of Oyo school pupils and teachers that gripped Nigeria ended on Friday, July 10, 2026. A joint security force successfully rescued the remaining school pupils and teachers kidnapped from the Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

The breakthrough was announced by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy. A coordinated tactical operation involving the military, the DSS, and the Nigeria Police Force penetrated the kidnappers’ forest stronghold. The high-stakes raid resulted in the rescue of the captives, the arrest of eight suspects, and the neutralization of several terrorists.

​The presidency firmly stated that no ransom was paid, nor were any concessions granted. The abductors had previously demanded a ₦1 billion ransom and the release of an imprisoned terrorist kingpin, who remains in state custody facing trial.

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The crisis began on May 15, 2026, when heavily armed bandits—later identified as dislodged Boko Haram members—simultaneously raided schools in the Ahoro-Esiele and Yawota communities of Oriire LGA.
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The gunmen opened fire indiscriminately before seizing the victims and marching them into the dense forest terrain bordering Kwara State and the Old Oyo National Park. At least one person was killed on the spot during the initial assault.
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In total, 46 victims—comprising 39 pupils and 7 teachers—were confirmed abducted. Among the captives was a two-year-old toddler and the school principal, Folawe Alamu.
​Governor Seyi Makinde later confirmed that 7 students were taken from Community Grammar School, while 18 children and 7 teachers were seized from Baptist Nursery and Primary School. Additional pupils were captured from L.A. Primary School.

​Following the attack, President Bola Tinubu condemned the raid as barbaric and vowed a swift rescue.
Inspector-General of Police Tunji Disu immediately dispatched specialized detectives to Oyo State to spearhead a technology-driven tracking operation.

​Reacting to the successful rescue, Governor Seyi Makinde expressed profound relief during an interview on Channels Television.

​”It’s such a big relief for all of us and for those that are waiting for this past 56 days,” Governor Makinde said. “I am just right now overjoyed. I want to say thank you to our service commanders… and of course the President, for pushing really hard to have this done.”

​In an official video clip released by the presidency, a female teacher expressed gratitude on behalf of the survivors. “Mr. President, sir, we are grateful. Every security operative tried so much, and that is why we are still alive today,” she said, surrounded by the resting children.

​President Tinubu has directed federal emergency and medical agencies to partner with the Oyo State Government. They will provide immediate medical examinations, trauma counseling, and rehabilitation support for the 45 survivors before reuniting them with their families.