The schoolchildren and teachers abducted from the Ahoro-Esinele and Yawota communities in the Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo have regained freedom after spending close to two months in captivity.

Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga announced the release of the captives, along with their pictures, in a statement on X on Friday.

“Finally, all the kidnapped pupils and teachers in Orire, Oyo have been rescued by our security agencies,” Mr Onanuga wrote.

One of the rescued persons thanked President Bola Tinubu and the security agencies for their efforts in securing their release.

“Mr President, we are grateful. We understand your commitment to our safety and appreciate all you did for us.

“We could see your hand. And every security operative tried so much, and that’s why we are alive now,” she stated.

The eventual release of the victims followed a series of sustained protests by organisations and Nigerians, including the Nigeria Union of Teachers, over the prolonged captivity of victims.