54 Days in Captivity: Hope Rises as Security Forces Close In on Oyo Abductors, Borno Families Still Await Rescue
It has been 54 days since armed abductors stormed schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, taking 39 pupils and seven teachers from Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, and two neighbouring schools in Ahoro-Esinle and Alawusa communities. The affected children and teachers remain in captivity, while their families continue to wait for their safe return.
Fresh hope emerged after security agencies reportedly made a significant intelligence breakthrough. According to reports, operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS), working alongside the military, have identified members of the kidnapping network and traced some of their associates across the country. Security sources believe the development has increased pressure on the abductors and may hasten the release of the captives.
Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu, recently expressed confidence that troops were making steady progress in the rescue operation. Retired military officers also backed the intelligence-led strategy but urged authorities to avoid releasing sensitive operational details that could endanger the mission.
The abductors had initially demanded the release of detained terrorist leaders, ransom, vehicles and other conditions before freeing the captives. However, security sources said recent operational gains may have forced them to reconsider some of those demands.
Meanwhile, concern remains high in Borno State, where pupils abducted from Mussa Primary and Junior Secondary School in Askira-Uba Local Government Area are also spending their 54th day in captivity. Despite ongoing security efforts, no official rescue has been announced.
As the days pass, parents, communities and child protection advocates continue to appeal for intensified rescue efforts, insisting that every affected child and teacher deserves to return home safely.
