The Nigerian military has confirmed that the recent abduction of dozens of students and teachers in Oyo State, southern Nigeria, was orchestrated by fighters from Boko Haram.
A military spokesperson revealed in an official statement that the perpetrators belonged to the jihadist faction Jama’at Ahl al-Sunnah li-l-Da’awah wa al-Jihad—widely recognized as Boko Haram. Authorities believe the armed group shifted its operations southward after facing heavy resistance from intensified military campaigns in the country’s northern regions.
On Friday, armed men stormed multiple schools in Yawota and Esiele, forcibly taking hostages. Official accounts vary: the Christian Association of Nigeria reports 39 children and seven teachers were kidnapped, while Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde estimates 25 students and seven educators were seized. All victims range in age from 2 to 16 years old.
Security forces are actively searching for the missing individuals, coordinating rescue efforts to ensure their safe return.
unusual violence in oyo state
While school kidnappings have become tragically common in northern Nigeria, such incidents are rare in Oyo State, where the capital Ibadan stands as a major educational hub. The latest attack has raised concerns about the expanding reach of armed groups.
military response and escalating clashes
In response to the surge in violence, the Nigerian military, with assistance from international partners, has escalated anti-jihadist operations in the north. Recent joint airstrikes in the northeast—historically a stronghold of Boko Haram—are reported to have eliminated 175 militants. However, the military pressure may have pushed some insurgents to relocate toward the southern states.
Over the past months, armed groups have escalated attacks on both civilians and security personnel. Independent security assessments indicate that 306 Nigerian soldiers were killed in the first quarter alone, underscoring the growing threat posed by these factions.
