Rescued Oyo Teacher Says Kidnappers Released Victims Before Troops Escorted Them Home
A teacher who was among those rescued following the abduction of pupils and staff from a school in Oyo State has revealed that the kidnappers released the victims before Nigerian soldiers escorted them to safety.
Speaking after regaining freedom, the teacher recounted the traumatic experience of spending weeks in captivity, explaining that the victims were eventually set free by their captors before they encountered military personnel who took them home.
According to the teacher, the group endured difficult conditions throughout their time in captivity, with the abductors frequently moving them from one location to another to avoid being detected by security forces. The victims reportedly trekked long distances through forests and remote communities during the ordeal.
The teacher said the release came after weeks of uncertainty and fear, adding that the moment they regained their freedom was filled with relief and gratitude. Shortly after being released, they were met by Nigerian soldiers, who provided protection and escorted them to safety.
The account differs from initial public assumptions that security forces directly rescued the victims from the kidnappers’ hideout. While acknowledging the role played by the military in ensuring their safe return, the teacher maintained that the captors had already released them before the soldiers arrived.
The abduction, which lasted 56 days, drew national attention and prompted widespread concern over the safety of schools in Nigeria. During their captivity, the victims reportedly faced harsh living conditions, food shortages and constant movement through forested areas.
Following their return, several of the rescued victims have begun sharing details of their experience, describing the psychological and physical challenges they endured while in the hands of the kidnappers. Their testimonies have renewed calls for stronger security measures around schools and improved protection for students and teachers.
Security agencies have continued operations aimed at dismantling criminal groups responsible for kidnappings across the country. Authorities say efforts are ongoing to apprehend those behind the Oyo school abduction and bring them to justice.
The Federal and Oyo State governments have also reiterated their commitment to improving security in schools through enhanced surveillance, intelligence gathering and closer collaboration with local communities.
The rescued teacher expressed appreciation to everyone who prayed and worked for their safe return, including security personnel, government officials and concerned Nigerians. The teacher also called for continued support for victims of kidnapping, noting that recovering from such traumatic experiences takes time.
The incident has reignited conversations about insecurity in parts of the country and the need for sustained action against kidnapping syndicates. Analysts say protecting schools remains a critical priority, particularly in areas vulnerable to attacks on educational institutions.
As investigations continue, authorities are expected to gather more information from the rescued victims to aid efforts to identify and prosecute those responsible. Meanwhile, the victims are receiving medical attention, counselling and other forms of support as they recover from their ordeal.
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