A newly surfaced video has provided fresh insight into the security operation that rescued abducted schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State after more than 50 days in captivity.
The footage, which began circulating on social media over the weekend, reportedly shows some of the suspected terrorists arrested during the rescue mission. It also captures members of the tactical team deployed by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) as they carried out parts of the operation that secured the victims’ freedom.
The schoolchildren and their teachers were abducted in Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State and were rescued on Friday following an intensive security operation that lasted several weeks. Their safe return has been widely welcomed after weeks of uncertainty over their fate.
The Presidency confirmed that all the victims were rescued successfully, adding that eight suspected kidnappers were arrested while several others were neutralised during the operation.
Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga disclosed that the suspects have since been handed over to the Department of State Services (DSS) for further investigation. According to him, special forces coordinated by the Office of the National Security Adviser conducted a 30-day covert operation to isolate the abductors before launching the rescue mission.
President Bola Tinubu also commended the security agencies for the successful operation, identifying the Ansaru terrorist group as being responsible for the abduction.
In a statement issued after the rescue, the President said Nigeria had “a reason to give thanks” for the safe return of the victims. He emphasized that no ransom was paid and no prisoner exchange took place to secure their release.
Tinubu praised the courage, discipline and professionalism displayed by the security personnel involved in the operation, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to combating terrorism and protecting lives across the country.
The newly released video has generated widespread reactions online, with many Nigerians applauding the security forces for the successful mission while expressing hope that those arrested will be prosecuted and that similar operations will continue to bring kidnapping victims home safely.#newsafro_
