President Tinubu confirms no ransom paid for Oyo abduction victims' release
via Punch Nigeria2 min read
President 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.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
President Bola Tinubu has approved the upgrade of the Federal Polytechnic, Nasarawa, to the Federal University of Mining, Engineering and Technology, Nasarawa. This decision, announced by the President鈥檚 Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, aims to strengthen technical education and boost Nigeria鈥檚 solid minerals sector. The upgrade aligns with the administration鈥檚 commitment to developing human capital and unlocking the nation's solid minerals potential. The approval follows a proposal from Senator Ahmed Wadada Aliyu, representing Nasarawa West Senatorial District, who advocated for a specialized institution to leverage Nasarawa State's advantages in the solid minerals sector and support Nigeria's industrialization. The new university will offer specialized education and research in mining, engineering, mineral processing, metallurgy, manufacturing, and emerging technologies, producing a skilled workforce for value addition and technological advancement. This move reflects President Tinubu鈥檚 determination to align tertiary education with national development priorities under the Renewed Hope Agenda. The President has directed the Federal Ministry of Education, the National Universities Commission, and other relevant agencies to initiate the conversion process, reaffirming his administration's commitment to investing in education as a strategic driver for economic growth, innovation, job creation, and national prosperity.
Must ReadOgun State Governor Dapo Abiodun has congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on the successful rescue of 39 pupils and seven teachers abducted from Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State. Governor Abiodun stated that the operation demonstrates the President's commitment to eliminating criminal elements and sends a clear message that Nigeria is becoming hostile to kidnappers, bandits, and other violent criminals. He praised the Armed Forces, Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services, and local intelligence operatives for their gallantry and professionalism. Governor Abiodun also acknowledged Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde for his collaboration with the Federal Government and security agencies, highlighting that this seamless cooperation contributed significantly to the successful outcome. He urged Nigerians to trust security institutions and provide timely intelligence. The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, confirmed the rescue, noting that no concessions were made to the terrorists. The abductions occurred on May 15, 2026, when armed men attacked three schools, resulting in the death of two teachers. The kidnappers had reportedly made demands including the release of detained commanders, ransom, vehicles, and the implementation of Sharia-related law, but the Oyo State Government maintained a no-ransom policy. The incident led to public anguish and a teachers' strike.
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