Oyo Governor links school abduction to 2027 presidential declaration
via Punch Nigeria2 min read
Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde stated that the abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area occurred hours after he declared his intention to contest the 2027 presidential election. Makinde, who made the remark while addressing a meeting in Bauchi, noted that Oyo State had not experienced a similar incident during his seven years in office before the May 15 attack. He formally declared his presidential ambition on May 14 at a joint rally in Ibadan, aiming to "reset Nigeria," and later emerged as the presidential candidate for the Allied Peoples Movement. Hours after Makinde's comments, the Presidency announced that all victims were rescued after 56 days in captivity through a joint operation involving the military, Department of State Services, and police. Eight suspected kidnappers were arrested and are in DSS custody, while others were neutralized. The Presidency confirmed that no negotiation or exchange took place despite the abductors' demand for a detained kingpin's release. Following the rescue, Makinde expressed relief and thanked President Tinubu and security agencies for securing the victims' freedom, describing it as a "big relief" for the families and people of Oyo State. President Tinubu also commended the security agencies and directed emergency agencies to provide medical care and support to the rescued individuals.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
Must ReadPresident Bola Tinubu announced that no ransom was paid and no concessions were made to secure the release of pupils and teachers abducted by suspected Ansaru terrorists in Oyo State. The victims were rescued by security forces after more than 50 days in captivity. The abduction occurred on May 15, 2026, when armed men attacked schools in Ahoro-Esinle, Yawota, and Alawusa communities, seizing approximately 39 pupils and seven teachers. One teacher, Michael Oyedokun, was killed during captivity. The terrorists, linked to the Ansaru faction, had initially demanded the release of two detained Ansaru commanders. President Tinubu commended the military, the Department of State Services, and the Nigeria Police Force for their courage and professionalism in the operation, which also led to the arrest of eight suspected kidnappers. He warned terrorists that his administration would relentlessly pursue them to protect Nigerians. The President also praised the Oyo State Government for its cooperation and directed emergency agencies to provide support to the rescued victims, pledging justice for them and for the family of Michael Oyedokun. The rescue concluded 56 days of captivity.
The Young Progressives Party has called on President Bola Tinubu and Nigerian security agencies to adopt the strategy used to rescue abducted pupils and teachers in Oriire, Oyo State, for similar situations across the country. The party emphasized that decisive security action, rather than ransom negotiations, is the most effective response to terrorism and kidnapping. This call followed the successful rescue of 57 victims from three schools in Oriire Local Government Area after 56 days in captivity. The YPP commended the security agencies for their coordinated operation, which led to the victims' freedom and the neutralization of some kidnappers. The party views this operation as a significant victory against insecurity, arguing that successful rescue missions through force discourage criminal groups from relying on kidnapping. The YPP urged the same commitment for victims abducted in other parts of the country, particularly students kidnapped in Borno State. Reiterating its stance against negotiating with armed groups, the party maintained that terrorists and kidnappers should be confronted through sustained security operations and prosecuted. The YPP also expressed concern over increasing attacks on schools, warning that this trend threatens education in Nigeria. To address this, the party called for strengthening the Safe Schools Initiative through increased security personnel, improved intelligence gathering, surveillance technology, community policing, and rapid-respons
Must ReadThe Nigeria Football Federation has announced the Super Falcons squad for the 2026 Women鈥檚 Africa Cup of Nations, where the 10-time champions will defend their title in Morocco. Head coach Justine Madugu selected a 25-player squad, combining experienced internationals and new talents. Key players include Al Hilal forward and Super Falcons captain Asisat Oshoala, Paris Saint-Germain鈥檚 Rasheedat Ajibade, and Brighton & Hove Albion goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie. The squad also features Michelle Alozie and veteran forward Francisca Ordega. Defender Ashleigh Plumptre is a notable absentee. Nigeria, with previous wins in 1998, 2000, 2002, 2004, 2006, 2010, 2014, 2016, 2018, and 2024, enters the tournament as favorites. WAFCON 2026 is scheduled to take place in Morocco from July 25 to August 16, 2026.