OYO STATE, NIGERIA – Nigerian security authorities have rescued a group of schoolchildren and teachers who were abducted more than seven weeks ago, following an operation that led to the arrest of eight suspected kidnappers and the killing of several others, according to government officials.
The rescue, announced on Saturday, has been widely welcomed across Nigeria, including by former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, who described the children’s safe return as “worthy of thanksgiving.”
“I am greatly relieved and delighted to learn of the safe rescue of the schoolchildren who were kidnapped,” Obi said in a statement. “I sincerely thank all those whose tireless efforts made their freedom possible, especially the security personnel and everyone who worked behind the scenes.”
According to official accounts, the victims spent 56 days in captivity after being abducted on or around May 15, 2026. During the ordeal, one of the teachers, identified as Michael, was reportedly killed by the kidnappers.
Emotional Reunion and Government Confirms No Concessions
Videos circulating on social media showed emotional scenes as the rescued children and teachers reunited with officials and expressed gratitude to the government and security personnel.
“We are grateful. God bless you, sir,” several of the rescued victims could be heard saying in one of the videos.
Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga confirmed the success of the operation, stating that the government did not negotiate with the kidnappers or make any concessions to secure the hostages’ release.
According to Onanuga, the abductors had reportedly demanded the release of a high-profile detainee currently facing prosecution for serious crimes. However, the government rejected the demand and proceeded with a security operation that resulted in the victims’ rescue.
He added that eight suspected kidnappers are now in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS), while several others were killed during the operation. Security agencies are expected to provide additional details in due course.
Public Debate Over Security
The successful rescue has been celebrated nationwide but has also renewed public debate over Nigeria’s persistent security challenges. While many Nigerians praised the operation, others questioned why it took nearly two months to secure the victims’ freedom.
In a widely shared video, one commentator said:
“Why should this take 56 days when you knew you could rescue them? Anything could have happened. But this also shows that when Nigeria truly wants to act, it can.”
Obi Renews Call for Security Reforms
Peter Obi also used the occasion to renew his call for comprehensive reforms to Nigeria’s security architecture.
“While we celebrate this happy outcome, we must remember that no child should ever have to endure such trauma,” he said. “The recurring incidents of kidnapping, particularly of schoolchildren, underscore the urgent need to make the protection of lives and property the foremost responsibility of government.”
He added:
“Our children deserve to learn in an atmosphere of safety, not fear. A New Nigeria is Possible.”
Context of Ongoing Security Challenges
The latest rescue is the most recent in a series of mass school abductions that have affected parts of northern Nigeria in recent years, highlighting continuing security vulnerabilities within the country’s education sector and the ongoing threat posed by armed criminal groups.
As the rescued children and teachers reunite with their families, attention is expected to shift towards their rehabilitation and reintegration. Mental health experts say many victims of prolonged captivity may require psychological support to recover from the trauma they experienced.
The Credibility News will continue to monitor developments and provide updates as additional information is released by Nigerian security agencies.
