Ibadan, Oyo State – The father of Lieutenant Felix Ademe Isaac, the 28-year-old Nigerian Army officer who lost his life during the operation that rescued abducted pupils and teachers in Oyo State, has paid an emotional tribute to his son, describing him as a courageous soldier who made the ultimate sacrifice for his country.
Speaking after the successful rescue operation, Mr. Isaac Alabura said the pain of losing his son was overwhelming but added that the family was proud that he died in active service while helping to save innocent lives.
The late Lieutenant Isaac was among the first troops deployed during the intelligence-led operation that eventually secured the freedom of 44 abducted pupils and teachers who had spent 56 days in captivity after gunmen attacked three schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State. He was reportedly killed during the early phase of the mission.
Born on August 25, 1997, the young officer was laid to rest with full military honours at the 23 Armoured Brigade Cemetery in Yola, Adamawa State, on July 10—the same day the kidnapped pupils and teachers regained their freedom.
His death has sparked an outpouring of grief and admiration across Nigeria, with military personnel, public officials and citizens hailing him as a national hero whose bravery ensured that dozens of schoolchildren returned safely to their families.
Governor Seyi Makinde had earlier confirmed the officer’s death while announcing the success of the month-long rescue mission, describing the operation as one that came at a heavy cost to the nation’s security forces.
For the grieving Alabura family, however, Lieutenant Felix Ademe Isaac will be remembered not only as a gallant soldier but also as a son whose final act was one of extraordinary courage and selflessness.
His story has become a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made daily by members of Nigeria’s armed forces in the fight against insecurity.