The pupils and teachers of Community Grammar School in Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State who were abducted by gunmen have regained their freedom after spending 56 days in captivity.
The successful rescue was confirmed by the Presidency, bringing relief to the victims’ families, the school community and residents who had anxiously awaited their safe return.
Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga announced the development, stating that the operation was carried out by Nigerian security agencies, which secured the release of all the abducted pupils and members of staff. He described the rescue as a significant achievement in the government’s ongoing efforts to tackle insecurity and protect citizens across the country.
Following their release, a video shared by the Presidency showed the visibly relieved victims expressing appreciation for the efforts that led to their freedom. In the video, the Vice Principal of Community Grammar School, Alamu Folawe, thanked President Bola Tinubu, security agencies and everyone involved in the rescue mission for ensuring that the abductees returned home safely.
She described the experience as a difficult and traumatic ordeal, while expressing gratitude that the victims had survived and were reunited with their families after nearly two months in captivity.
The Oyo State Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Abimbola, also confirmed the successful rescue of the pupils and teachers. He said further information regarding the security operation that led to their release would be disclosed at a later time, noting that investigations and other operational procedures were still ongoing.
The abduction had drawn widespread concern across the country, with parents, education stakeholders and civil society organisations calling for intensified efforts to secure the victims’ release and strengthen security around schools.
The successful rescue has been welcomed by many Nigerians, who have commended the security agencies for the operation while urging the government to sustain efforts aimed at preventing future attacks on educational institutions and ensuring that schools remain safe environments for learning.
