Oyo School Abduction Rescue Draws Praise from Nigerian Leaders
Nigerian political and traditional leaders have lauded the successful rescue of abducted pupils and teachers in Oyo State, commending security agencies and the federal government for rejecting terrorists' demands.
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Nigerian political and traditional leaders have praised the rescue of school pupils and teachers abducted in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, hailing the operation as a demonstration of effective security response and political resolve. The victims, taken from Community Grammar School, Ahoro-Esinele; LA Primary School; and Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, were held for 56 days before being freed in a joint security operation on Friday, according to Vanguard News.
Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, presidential aspirant of the Accord Party for the 2027 general election, credited strong political support for enabling the success of the mission. He stated that the rescue proved Nigeria’s security forces are capable of defeating criminal elements when backed by decisive leadership, a view echoed by All Progressives Congress (APC) National Chairman Professor Nentawe Yilwatda. In a statement issued through his Special Adviser on Media and Information, Abimbola Tooki, Yilwatda commended the Federal Government and security agencies for securing the release of the captives.
The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, described the rescue as a display of gallantry by Nigeria’s security agencies, underscoring their role in protecting citizens. The federal government’s decision not to accede to the abductors’ demands was highlighted by activist Sunday Igboho, who noted the importance of that stance in ensuring a successful outcome. The coordinated security operation culminated in the safe recovery of the hostages after their abduction on May 15, 2026.