Fresh optimism has emerged in the search for dozens of abducted schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State as security agencies intensify operations to rescue the victims and tighten pressure on their captors.
Security sources say investigators have recorded significant progress after identifying and tracking associates of the kidnapping gang responsible for the abduction of pupils and teachers from Ahoro-Esinle, Yawota and Alawusa communities in Oriire Local Government Area.
According to the sources, intelligence gathered by the Department of State Services (DSS) has enabled security operatives to identify members of the gang and trace some of their associates across different parts of the country. The development is said to have increased pressure on the abductors, who are reportedly becoming more anxious as security forces close in on their network.
For the past two weeks, combined security teams have maintained operations around the vast Oyo National Park forest, where the victims are believed to be held. Authorities have also blocked possible escape routes in a bid to prevent the kidnappers from moving the hostages to another location.
A security source familiar with the operation said the sustained intelligence-led strategy has unsettled the abductors and boosted hopes that the children and teachers could soon regain their freedom. However, officials have not disclosed operational details that could affect the ongoing rescue mission.
The victims were abducted on May 15 during coordinated attacks on Baptist Nursery and Primary School in Yawota and two other schools in Esinle. Security sources previously disclosed that the kidnappers initially demanded the release of detained leaders of Ansaru, an extremist group linked to Boko Haram. Those demands are now said to have weakened as pressure from security agencies continues to mount.
Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, confirmed that troops are making substantial progress in the rescue operation. Speaking to journalists in Port Harcourt, he said military personnel and other security agencies remain committed to securing the safe release of all the victims.
Meanwhile, the Anglican Diocese of Ogbomoso has appealed to the government to provide regular updates on the rescue efforts to reassure anxious families and restore public confidence. In a statement, Bishop Rt. Rev. Titus Olayinka commended security agencies for their efforts but urged authorities to intensify operations until every victim is safely reunited with their families.
The Diocese also expressed sympathy to the families of those still in captivity and security personnel who have lost their lives during rescue operations, calling for continued prayers and national support as efforts to end the ordeal continue.
