Security forces have intensified efforts to rescue 46 individuals abducted from three schools in Ahoro-Esinle, Yawota and Alawusa communities in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, with indications that the victims may regain freedom soon.
On May 15, 2026, armed assailants reportedly stormed the schools and abducted 39 pupils and seven teachers. Security sources disclosed that troops have since blocked all possible escape routes within the National Park forest area, where the victims are believed to be held.
According to multiple security officials familiar with the operation, the suspected kidnappers have been effectively contained within the forest as joint security operatives maintain a tight cordon around the area. The sources added that movement of the abductors has been significantly restricted as pressure from the ongoing operation mounts.
One security source also revealed that the abductors, under increasing pressure, allegedly killed one of the kidnapped teachers in what was described as a desperate attempt to intimidate authorities and disrupt the rescue mission.
The kidnappers were initially said to have issued several demands, including the release of detained terrorist commanders, payment of ransom, provision of two Hilux vehicles, and the introduction of Sharia-related laws. Among those demanded for release are Mahmud Usman, also known as Abu Bara’a or Abbas Mukhtar, and his deputy Abubakar Abba, also known as Isah Adam or Mahmud Al-Nigeri, both reportedly linked to the Jama’atu Ansarul Muslimeena Fi Biladis Sudan (Ansaru), a breakaway faction of Boko Haram.
The duo are currently in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS), having been arrested in a previous operation.
However, sources said the abductors have since scaled down their demands, now focusing largely on securing ransom payment as security pressure intensifies.
Intelligence reports further indicated that the gang leader is an indigene of Oriire Local Government Area who allegedly became radicalised after contact with the Ansaru terrorist network.
The affected communities are located near the Nigeria–Niger border corridor and the Kainji axis, a terrain described by security operatives as difficult and largely without communication networks.
Security sources also disclosed that prior intelligence had warned of possible attacks in the area, prompting precautionary measures, including the temporary closure of some schools.
They added that sustained military operations across the country have weakened terrorist groups, forcing many to abandon their strongholds and resort to attacks on vulnerable rural communities.
Recent operations, according to security officials, have led to the neutralisation of several insurgent commanders and the arrest of others, while many suspects are believed to have fled into neighbouring countries.
A senior security official expressed optimism that ongoing counterterrorism efforts would succeed.
“The war against terrorism will be won. We will not relent until these criminals are either eliminated or forced out of the country. The signs of progress are already visible,” the official said.