Terrorists Demand Prisoner Swap for Abducted Oyo, Borno Students

Efforts to rescue dozens of students and teachers abducted during recent school attacks in Oyo and Borno states have been complicated by difficult terrain, fears for the victims’ safety and demands by the kidnappers for the release of detained terrorist commanders, according to security and Presidency sources.

The development comes as the United Nations and the Federal Government renewed calls for the safe return of the abducted victims, describing their release as a national priority.

Abductors Demand Release of Detained Terror Commanders

According to a report by Punch, multiple sources familiar with ongoing rescue efforts said the kidnappers are demanding the release of high-profile Ansaru leaders currently in government custody.

The sources identified the commanders as Mahmud Muhammad Usman and his deputy, Mahmud al-Nigeri, who were arrested during intelligence-led counterterrorism operations announced by National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu in August 2025.

A Presidency source told Punch that the Oyo and Borno school abductions were coordinated and intended to pressure the Federal Government into a prisoner exchange.

“They are pressing for a swap with some high-profile terrorists who are in government custody,” the source said.

The official added that authorities are reluctant to release the suspects because of concerns they could return to terrorist activities if freed.

Difficult Terrain Hampers Rescue Operations

Security sources also said the forested locations where the victims are believed to be held have complicated rescue efforts.

According to the report, authorities are concerned that any military operation could endanger the lives of the abducted children and teachers.

Armed men attacked schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State on May 15, abducting students, pupils and teachers from three schools. Days later, one of the abducted teachers, Michael Oyedokun, was killed by the kidnappers.

On the same day, suspected Boko Haram fighters attacked schools in Borno State’s Askira-Uba Local Government Area, abducting between 42 and 50 schoolchildren.

President Bola Tinubu had condemned the attacks, describing them as barbaric and assuring Nigerians that efforts were underway to secure the victims’ release.

UN, Federal Government Renew Calls for Release

The United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mohamed Malick Fall, called for the immediate and safe release of the abducted students and teachers.

“Schools must remain safe havens for learning and not places of fear. Children should never be a target,” Fall said after meeting officials of the National Safe Schools Response Coordination Centre in Abuja.

He urged authorities to strengthen measures aimed at protecting schools and ensuring the safety of children and educators across the country.

Meanwhile, Minister of Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris said the Federal Government remained committed to securing the release of all those in captivity.

“On behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Federal Government of Nigeria, I wish to assure all Nigerians that the safe return of every child and every teacher currently in captivity remains a top national priority,” he said.

Idris said security agencies, including the military, intelligence services and police, were conducting coordinated operations involving surveillance, intelligence gathering and search-and-rescue missions.

He added that the President had authorised the deployment of specialised rescue teams and directed security agencies to use all lawful means to secure the release of the victims and bring those responsible to justice.

Also Read: Over 600 Students, Teachers Kidnapped Under Tinubu Despite Safe Schools Programme

Source: Punch Newspaper.

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A Lagos-based journalist with a passion for disseminating factual information and a deep appreciation for good music, good food, movies, and beautiful cars. He hopes to travel the world someday, documenting its beauty and diverse cultures through his storytelling.