Successful Rescue Operation in Oyo State
Lieutenant Colonel Jonah Danjuma, Acting Deputy Director General of Army Public Relations for the 2nd Division, announced the successful rescue of abducted students and teachers in Oriile Local Government Area, Oyo State. The operation was directed by Major General CR Nebaife, General Commanding the 2nd Division, and marked a significant achievement in the ongoing fight against terrorism.
Collaborative Efforts from Multiple Security Agencies
Danjuma revealed that the operation was a coordinated effort involving multiple agencies, including the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), the National Counter-Terrorism Center (NCTC), and armed forces such as the Nigerian Army Special Forces, Navy, and Air Force. Additionally, the Nigerian Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), and local community members, such as vigilantes and hunters, contributed to the successful outcome.
Intelligence-Driven Tactics to Dismantle Terror Networks
The military emphasized that the operation was driven by intelligence aimed at identifying and dismantling the terrorist network responsible for the abduction. This included targeting key figures, logistics routes, and hideouts, particularly in the Old Oyo National Park region. Continuous pressure on the criminal organization played a crucial role in forcing the abductors to release their captives unconditionally.
Prolonged Operation Leads to Significant Outcomes
Over the span of more than a month, the operation capitalized on intelligence to identify and neutralize the masterminds behind the kidnapping. Several arrests were made across Oyo State and beyond, disrupting the network significantly. This strategic approach created overwhelming pressure, compelling the terrorists to release the kidnapped individuals.
Focus on Safety and Avoiding Collateral Damage
The Army highlighted that this meticulously planned operation prioritized the safety of all involved, ensuring the successful recovery of the abducted students and teachers. Despite the operation’s achievements, specific details regarding casualties among security personnel were not disclosed.
Rescued Victims Undergoing Treatment
The rescued individuals are currently receiving medical treatment at a secure location and will eventually be reunited with their families, as they are handed over to the Oyo State Government. Both Major General Nebaife and other involved security officials expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering support, which was deemed crucial to the operation’s success.
Gratitude for Support and Vigilance Needed Moving Forward
In his remarks, Nebaife also acknowledged Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde and the local community for their cooperation throughout the operation. He stressed the importance of continued vigilance and proactive engagement from all citizens in the fight against terrorism and criminal activities, urging the public to provide timely and reliable information to security agencies. A follow-up operation is already underway to thoroughly dismantle any remaining elements of the terrorist network related to the abduction.
