Punch Newspaper
Fresh details have emerged on how terrorists behind the abduction of pupils and teachers in Oyo State have allegedly adopted tactics aimed at frustrating ongoing rescue operations by security agencies.
The victims were kidnapped on May 15, 2026, when terrorists attacked three schools in Esinele, Yawota and Alawusa communities in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State. Since then, security forces have intensified efforts to secure their release.
However, intelligence sources and security officials say rescue efforts have been complicated by a combination of difficult terrain, concerns over the safety of the hostages and the terrorists’ evolving strategy. According to reports, the abductors have continued to move the captives through remote forest locations, making it harder for security operatives to launch direct assault operations without endangering the victims.
The terrorists are also reportedly demanding the release of detained commanders, a condition the Federal Government has been unwilling to accept. Other demands allegedly include a ransom payment, the provision of vehicles and additional conditions that authorities consider unacceptable. Security sources say these demands are viewed as attempts to prolong negotiations and delay rescue operations.
The crisis escalated after the abductors reportedly killed one of the teachers in captivity and threatened further violence, raising fears about the safety of the remaining victims. The development has forced security agencies to balance military pressure with measures aimed at protecting the hostages.
Meanwhile, the Nigerian Air Force has sustained aerial surveillance missions over suspected hideouts, while other security agencies continue intelligence-driven operations to locate the captives. The Federal Government has also deployed a high-powered delegation to Oyo State as part of efforts to coordinate rescue and security operations.
Earlier, the Defence Headquarters identified the perpetrators as members of the Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad (JAS) terrorist group who were displaced from other parts of the country following intensified military offensives. According to the military, the movement of such elements into new areas has created fresh security challenges in parts of the South-West.
Despite the challenges, authorities insist that intelligence sharing, aerial surveillance and coordinated security operations remain ongoing, expressing confidence that the victims will eventually be rescued safely.