The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has announced that troops are making “tremendous progress” in the operation to rescue the 39 students and seven teachers abducted in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State by bandits on May 15.
Army Chief Briefs Media on Rescue Operations
Speaking during an interactive session with media executives in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, over the weekend, Shaibu provided an update on the ongoing efforts. “Operations are currently ongoing to rescue those children abducted in Oyo state, and we are making tremendous progress,” he stated.
He further emphasized that the Nigerian Army remains actively engaged in various operations across the country’s six geopolitical zones to address security challenges. The COAS reassured the public that the military is committed to ensuring the safe return of all abducted victims.
Details of the Abduction Incident
On May 15, armed men attacked three schools in Oriire LGA, abducting 39 pupils and seven teachers, including the principal of one of the affected schools. The incident sparked widespread concern and condemnation across Nigeria.
Days after the abduction, the captors killed Michael Oyedokun, one of the abducted teachers, while he was in captivity. The killing heightened fears for the safety of the remaining hostages and intensified calls for swift government action.
Security Operations Across Geopolitical Zones
The Army chief stated that the military is conducting simultaneous operations in all six geopolitical zones to combat banditry, kidnapping, and other security threats. He did not provide specific details about the ongoing rescue mission but assured that troops are making headway.
According to the COAS, the Nigerian Army has adopted a multi-pronged approach, combining kinetic and non-kinetic strategies to address the root causes of insecurity. He urged the media to support the military by disseminating accurate information and avoiding sensationalism.
Community and Government Response
The abduction has drawn strong reactions from local communities, parents, and government officials. Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has vowed to do everything possible to secure the release of the victims and has been in contact with security agencies.
The police and other security forces have also been deployed to the area, but the military is leading the rescue operation. The Army chief’s latest statement offers a glimmer of hope for families anxiously awaiting the return of their loved ones.
As of now, no ransom demand has been officially confirmed, and the abductors have not issued any public statement since the killing of the teacher. Security analysts warn that such incidents require careful negotiation to avoid further casualties.
