A teacher rescued after spending nearly two months in captivity has revealed that he and other victims were released by their abductors before soldiers later escorted them back to their families.
The teacher, Zacchaeus Olatunde, said the victims were held for 56 days after they were kidnapped alongside pupils during an attack on schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State. He explained that although soldiers eventually took them home, the kidnappers had already allowed them to leave.
According to him, the abductors unexpectedly informed the captives that they were free to go before directing them out of the forest. He said they later encountered military personnel, who received them and ensured they returned home safely.
Olatunde described their time in captivity as a painful experience filled with fear and uncertainty. He said the victims struggled daily with harsh living conditions and constantly prayed for an end to their ordeal.
He added that despite the difficult conditions, all the abducted teachers and pupils survived the experience and have now been reunited with their families.
The teacher expressed gratitude to God for preserving their lives throughout the period of captivity and thanked everyone who prayed for their safe return.
The abduction had sparked widespread concern across Oyo State and beyond, with many Nigerians calling for urgent action to improve security around schools and protect students and teachers from similar attacks.
The victims’ return has brought relief to their families and communities, although questions remain over the circumstances surrounding their release.
Security agencies have continued efforts to combat kidnapping and other violent crimes, while residents have renewed calls for stronger measures to prevent attacks on educational institutions.
The incident has once again highlighted the growing security challenges facing schools in parts of the country and the need for sustained action to protect lives and restore public confidence.