Eight individuals linked to the abduction of schoolchildren in Nigeria have been taken into custody by the Department of State Services (DSS) after a coordinated rescue mission carried out by security operatives.
The development was confirmed by the Presidential Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, who revealed that security forces neutralised some of the kidnappers during the operation, while eight suspects were arrested and handed over to the DSS for further investigation.
Onanuga made the disclosure on Friday, July 10, 2026, through his verified X account, @aonunuga1956.
According to the presidential aide, the government did not negotiate or make any concessions to secure the release of the abducted children. He explained that one of the gang leaders, whose release had been demanded by the kidnappers before the hostages could be freed, remains on trial for various criminal offences.
He further noted that the appropriate security agencies would, at the appropriate time, provide a detailed account of how the rescue operation was carried out.
No concessions made to Oyo school kidnappers
The statement also dismissed claims that the authorities reached any form of agreement with the kidnappers during the rescue process. “There was no quid pro quo in the rescue, as one of the terrorists, a kingpin, whom the kidnappers demanded his release, is being prosecuted for his atrocities”
Reactions as kidnapped Oyo school pupils and teachers are rescued
@holyemmyjoe argued: “Lies, show us the bandits that you arrested. The guy that you arrest for deepfaking TPain voice, you posted, but bandits that kidnapped citizens, you hide their faces.”
@LionelKuti10 added: “Who is this one fooling? We will still hear from the teachers or the students what happened exactly, but you will lie as usual. Name the terrorists and their sponsors.”
@ayobami_oxox commented: “Well done to the security, armed forces and others involved in rescuing the hostage. I hope it doesn’t get politicised and we can face other insecurity issues in the country.”
@Dave_TKH wrote: “I’m happy for them. After spending months in captivity, I sincerely hope they’re able to heal and reclaim their lives. The unfortunate reality is that experiences like kidnapping by bandits often leave psychological scars that can last a lifetime.”
