Oriire School Rescue Proves Tinubu Is Delivering On Security – Sanwo-Olu

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has described the successful rescue of pupils and teachers abducted from schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State as a clear indication of the Federal Government’s determination to combat insecurity across Nigeria.

According to Ireporter Online, the governor said the release of the victims after spending more than 50 days in captivity brought immense relief to their families, the people of Oyo State and Nigerians who had anxiously followed the incident.

Sanwo-Olu made the remarks in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Gboyega Akosile, shortly after security authorities confirmed the successful operation on Friday.

The victims were among dozens of pupils and teachers kidnapped on May 15, 2026, when armed men launched coordinated attacks on three schools in the Yawota and Ahoro-Esiele communities of Oriire Local Government Area. Reports indicated that at least 39 pupils and six teachers were rescued during a joint operation involving security and intelligence agencies.

Reacting to the development, the governor said the operation reflected the steady progress being made by President Bola Tinubu’s administration in addressing terrorism, kidnapping and other violent crimes across the country.

He applauded the courage, resilience and professionalism displayed by the security personnel involved in the rescue mission, describing their efforts as commendable. Sanwo-Olu also congratulated the people of Oyo State, particularly residents of Ogbomoso, on what he described as encouraging news.

The governor specifically praised the Nigerian Army, Nigerian Air Force, Department of State Services, Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies for working together to secure the victims’ freedom, noting that their collaboration was instrumental in ending the prolonged ordeal.

He further expressed sympathy to Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, the affected families and communities, stating that the successful rescue had restored hope to relatives of the victims and reassured many Nigerians who had been deeply concerned about their fate.

The mass abduction occurred when gunmen stormed Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Community Grammar School and LA Primary School, leaving 46 people, comprising 39 pupils and seven teachers, missing. Security reports linked the attackers to suspected members of the Ansaru militant group.

During the attacks, a teacher identified as Michael Oyedokun was reportedly killed, while another educator was also said to have lost his life during the period of captivity.

The incident intensified concerns over the growing threat of school kidnappings spreading to southern Nigeria, following a series of similar attacks previously concentrated in northern states.

The prolonged captivity of the victims triggered protests by teachers, students, residents and civil society groups in Ogbomoso, while public school teachers in Oyo State embarked on an indefinite strike, demanding stronger intervention from both the Federal and state governments.

Parents and relatives also continued to appeal for intensified rescue efforts as fears mounted over the wellbeing of those held captive. The incident significantly disrupted academic activities and renewed calls for improved security measures around schools, especially those located in remote communities bordering forest areas.