Tinubu: No Ransom Paid, No Concession Made in Rescue of Abducted Oyo Schoolchildren and Teachers
Tinubu: No Ransom Paid, No Concession Made in Rescue of Abducted Oyo Schoolchildren and Teachers
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has said that no ransom was paid and no concession was made to secure the release of the schoolchildren and teachers abducted by suspected terrorists in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, describing the operation as a major success for Nigeria’s security agencies.
The President made the disclosure following the successful rescue of the victims after spending more than 50 days in captivity. He commended the courage, professionalism and resilience of the security personnel involved in the operation, noting that the rescue reflected the Federal Government’s commitment to safeguarding the lives and property of Nigerians.
The victims were abducted on May 15, 2026, when heavily armed attackers invaded communities in Oriire Local Government Area, kidnapping pupils and teachers and throwing residents into panic. The incident attracted nationwide condemnation and prompted a coordinated rescue operation involving multiple security agencies. One of the abducted teachers was reported to have died while in captivity.
President Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s policy of not negotiating with terrorists through ransom payments or concessions, stressing that criminal elements would not be allowed to dictate the nation’s security agenda. He reiterated the government’s resolve to intensify operations against kidnapping, terrorism and other violent crimes across the country.
The President also assured Nigerians that security agencies would continue to pursue those responsible for the abduction and ensure they are brought to justice. He urged citizens to remain vigilant and support security agencies with credible intelligence to strengthen efforts at combating insecurity.
The successful rescue has been widely welcomed by Nigerians, with many describing it as a significant milestone in the ongoing campaign against kidnapping and terrorism while renewing calls for stronger protection of schools and vulnerable communities.
