Fresh Details as Oyo School Abduction Takes New Turn

The rescue operation has faced major challenges, with security sources alleging that the group has intensified attacks in other parts of the country in an attempt to divert military attention from the rescue mission. The operation has also led to clashes between troops and the terrorists, resulting in the deaths of some security personnel.

The abduction took place during attacks on Baptist Nursery and Primary School in Yawota, L.A. Primary School, and Community Grammar School in Esiele, where 42 pupils and teachers, including a principal, were taken into the forest.

One of the abducted teachers, Michael Oyedokun, was killed the following day. Security sources said the killing was intended to discourage rescue efforts.

The terrorists have reportedly demanded the release of two of their commanders, Mahmud Usman and Abubakar Abba, in exchange for the abducted victims. However, the government has maintained that it will not negotiate with the kidnappers.

Security operatives familiar with the rescue operation stated that all possible exit routes from the forest had been manned by soldiers, making it difficult for the terrorists to move their victims out. It was gathered that soldiers trying to flush out the terrorists have come under attack on two occasions, resulting in the deaths of at least three personnel.

One security source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the forest’s difficult terrain and the terrorists’ tactics had slowed down the operation.

“They have planted IEDs everywhere and our men are exploring professional methods to navigate the difficult areas,” The Punch Newspaper quoted the source.

The source added, “Some soldiers have been killed in the operation. There have been shootouts on two occasions. The military lost three personnel in those shootouts. Just two weeks ago, two soldiers were killed in the forest. That has really slowed down the operation, but we are not relenting.”

The source also noted that the terrorists change location almost every day to evade capture.

“They know they are being monitored and that security operatives are everywhere. So, they move their victims from one place to another. But they can’t leave the forest. They have been surrounded.”

Recall that during a recent protest, Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, confirmed that some soldiers died during the ongoing rescue efforts.

“We have lost men, even soldiers and officers. I can confirm to you that a lieutenant in the Nigerian Army was killed two days ago.”