The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, has disclosed that eight suspected kidnappers involved in the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State have been arrested and are currently in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS). He added that several other terrorists were neutralised during fierce gun battles with security operatives.
Onanuga reiterated the Federal Government’s uncompromising stance against terrorism, confirming that the victims were rescued without any negotiations or concessions, despite the abductors demanding the release of an alleged international terrorist kingpin linked to Al-Qaeda.
“There was no quid pro quo in the rescue, as one of the terrorists, a kingpin whose release the kidnappers demanded, is currently being prosecuted for his atrocities,” Onanuga said.
He added that security agencies would soon provide a comprehensive tactical briefing on the rescue operation.
Following their rescue from the forest, a video released by the Presidency showed the visibly relieved pupils and teachers expressing profound gratitude to the military and President Bola Tinubu for refusing to give up on them.
“We are grateful, Mr. President, sir,” one of the rescued victims said in the footage. “We understand your commitment to our safety, and we appreciate all you did for us. We could see it in your heart. Thank you very much.”