Orire Abduction: Eight Kidnappers in DSS Custody, Others Killed; Tolani Adigun Hails Tinubu’s Efforts
The Presidency has disclosed that eight kidnappers involved in the abduction of pupils and teachers in Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State have been arrested and are currently in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS), while several others were neutralised during the rescue operation.
Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, made the disclosure in a statement posted on his verified X handle on Friday, providing further details on the successful rescue of the victims.
According to Onanuga, the operation was carried out without yielding to the demands of the kidnappers, stressing that the Federal Government neither negotiated nor offered any concession to secure the release of the abducted pupils and teachers.
He revealed that one of the major demands made by the kidnappers was the release of their kingpin. However, the government declined the request, insisting that the suspect remains in custody and is currently facing prosecution for terrorism-related offences.
“In the course of the rescue operation, eight of the kidnappers were arrested and are now in DSS custody, while some of them were neutralised,” Onanuga stated, adding that there was no quid pro quo in the operation and that security agencies would provide a comprehensive briefing in due course.
Reacting to the development, the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for Ibadan South-West Constituency I in the forthcoming general election, Hon. Tolani Adigun, commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the nation’s security agencies for their unwavering commitment to the safe return of the victims.
Tolani described the rescue as a testament to the Federal Government’s resolve to confront insecurity and protect the lives of Nigerians, particularly schoolchildren and vulnerable citizens.
She praised the professionalism and courage displayed by the security operatives involved in the operation and urged Nigerians to continue supporting ongoing efforts to rid the country of criminal elements.
The APC chieftain also expressed relief over the safe release of the pupils and teachers, noting that the development has brought renewed hope and comfort to their families and the entire Orire community.