Security agencies have recorded a major breakthrough in efforts to rescue dozens of pupils and teachers abducted from schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, with intelligence operatives reportedly identifying members of the kidnapping gang and tracking several of their associates across different parts of Nigeria.
According to security sources, weeks of intelligence gathering by the Department of State Services (DSS), working alongside the military and other security agencies, have enabled operatives to uncover parts of the kidnappers' support network. The development is said to have mounted pressure on the abductors, who are now believed to be increasingly unsettled by the ongoing security operations.
The victims, comprising 39 pupils and seven teachers, were kidnapped on May 15, 2026, during coordinated attacks on Baptist Nursery and Primary School in Yawota and two other schools in Ahoro-Esinle, Oriire Local Government Area. The incident shocked Nigerians and renewed concerns over the safety of schools across the country.
Security sources disclosed that the kidnappers had initially demanded the release of detained terrorist commanders, ransom payments, two Hilux vehicles and the implementation of Sharia-related conditions before freeing the victims. However, recent intelligence gains are said to have weakened the group's position, with reports indicating that they may now be reconsidering some of their demands.
Speaking during activities marking the 2026 Nigerian Army Day Celebration, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, expressed confidence that troops were making significant progress in the ongoing rescue operation. He assured Nigerians that security forces remained committed to ensuring the safe return of all the abducted children and teachers.
Retired military officers have also described the intelligence breakthrough as a major operational success. They noted that identifying the kidnappers' collaborators could significantly disrupt the criminal network, making it more difficult for the gang to sustain the operation.
However, some security experts cautioned against releasing too many operational details while rescue efforts are still underway. They warned that public disclosure of sensitive information could alert the kidnappers and jeopardize ongoing operations, stressing that the safety of the victims should remain the highest priority.
The latest development has raised fresh hopes among the families of the abducted pupils and teachers, as Nigerians continue to pray for their safe and speedy rescue.
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