The Social Democratic Party (SDP) has commended Nigerian security forces for the safe rescue of schoolchildren and teachers abducted from three schools in Oyo State, ending an ordeal that lasted more than 56 days.
In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Araba Rufus Aiyenigba, the party said it “expresses commendation to the Nigerian security forces for the safe rescue from the camp of terrorists, of the abducted Oyo School children and their teachers after over fifty six (56) days in captivity.”
The victims, 44 schoolchildren and teachers in all, were abducted on May 15, 2026, from Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota; Community Grammar School, Esiele; and LA Primary School, Ogbomosho — all in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, South-West Nigeria. Their release followed a month-long, intelligence-led, multi-agency military operation.
The SDP described the operation as reflecting “the unity of purpose, impeccable professionalism, and gallantry” of the security agencies involved, calling it a source of national pride. The party, however, noted that the abduction itself remained “a major embarrassment to the nation,” pointing to what it called the government’s recurring failure to fulfil its duty under Chapter 2 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) to protect citizens.
Even so, the party said the successful rescue underscored its long-standing position that “everything wrong with us as a nation can be corrected with the right politics, right attitude, and correct capacity deployment of our leaders,” provided there is genuine commitment to the public good.
While celebrating the reunion of the freed children and teachers with their families, the SDP mourned the death of 28-year-old Lieutenant Felix Ademe Isaac, an Army officer who died in the course of the operation. The party saluted his “courage and sacrifice” in restoring the affected families’ joy, adding that he and other fallen personnel “will forever be remembered.”
The party further urged government at all levels to intensify efforts against poverty, hunger and social injustice, which it identified as root causes of Nigeria’s worsening insecurity. It expressed hope that the country’s democracy would soon translate into practical protection of lives and property, and lead to lasting national transformation.
