The Nigerian military confirmed on Saturday that security personnel sustained casualties during a month-long mission to secure the release of 44 kidnapped pupils and teachers in the Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State. The victims, abducted on May 15, 2026, were liberated on July 10 following a collaborative effort involving various intelligence and security agencies.
Led by Major General C.R. Nnebeife of the 2 Division, the operation integrated forces from the Army, Navy, Air Force, Police, DSS, NIA, NSCDC, and local groups like Amotekun and regional hunters. Lieutenant Colonel Jonah Danjuma, speaking for the 2 Division, explained that the mission targeted the kidnappers’ infrastructure and supply chains within the Old Oyo National Park.
By conducting widespread arrests, security forces disrupted the captors’ operations, which ultimately forced the unconditional release of the hostages. While the military emphasized that the strategy was designed to prioritize the safety of the victims and avoid civilian harm, they acknowledged that some security members died or were injured during the engagement. The rescued individuals are currently undergoing medical treatment before their return to the Oyo State government. Military leadership expressed gratitude toward President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Seyi Makinde for their support throughout the endeavor.
