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PDP and Omoyele Sowore commend rescue of abducted Oyo pupils and teachers
via Punch Nigeria2 min read
The Peoples Democratic Party PDP and African Action Congress presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore have praised the rescue of pupils and teachers abducted in Oyo State's Orire Local Government Area. The PDP, through its National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Ini Ememobong, welcomed the victims' safe return, acknowledging the efforts of the Federal Government, Oyo State government, security agencies, and other contributors, despite limited details on the rescue operation. The party highlighted the abduction as a stark reminder of Nigeria's security challenges, emphasizing the need for educational institutions to be safe spaces and urging the Federal Government to implement stronger measures to prevent future incidents. Omoyele Sowore also expressed gratitude to all who contributed to securing the victims' freedom. Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde described the rescue as a "big relief" after 57 days in captivity. The Presidency confirmed the rescue, stating that eight suspected kidnappers were arrested and are in the custody of the Department of State Services, with others neutralized during the operation. The rescue was achieved without meeting the kidnappers' demand for the release of a detained kingpin.
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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.