Boko Haram Trapped in Oyo Forest as Troops Intensify Rescue of Abducted Pupils, Teachers
More than one month after the abduction of pupils and teachers in Oyo State, security forces are intensifying efforts to rescue the victims as reports indicate that Boko Haram insurgents holding them captive have become increasingly desperate inside Oyo National Park.
Security sources disclosed that the terrorists, identified as Jama’atu Ahlis-Sunna Lidda’Awati Wal-Jihad, have reportedly planted improvised explosive devices (IEDs) across sections of the forest and continue relocating the abducted victims to evade military tracking.
The mass abduction occurred on May 15 during coordinated attacks on Baptist Nursery and Primary School in Yawota, L.A. Primary School, and Community Grammar School in Esiele, all in Oriire Local Government Area. A total of 42 pupils and teachers, including a school principal, were taken into the forest.
One of the abducted teachers, Michael Oyedokun, was reportedly killed a day after the attack in what security sources described as an attempt to discourage rescue efforts.
Sources familiar with the operation said troops have sealed possible escape routes around the forest, limiting the movement of the insurgents and their captives. However, attempts to advance deeper into the area have reportedly led to clashes, resulting in casualties among security personnel.
According to one source, difficult terrain and the widespread deployment of explosives have slowed the operation.
“They have planted IEDs in strategic areas and our men are applying professional methods to navigate safely,” the source said.
The source added that soldiers had engaged the insurgents in multiple encounters, with at least three personnel reportedly killed during recent operations.
Security operatives also alleged that the terrorists have escalated attacks in other parts of the country in an effort to divert military attention and stretch operational resources away from the rescue mission.
Intelligence reports suggest the insurgents are changing locations frequently while keeping the victims within the forest area to avoid detection.
Governor Seyi Makinde recently confirmed that military casualties had been recorded during the rescue effort, including the death of an Army officer.
Another security source stated that the abductors’ use of the hostages as human shields remains one of the biggest challenges confronting troops.
“They are moving with the victims, and any direct confrontation carries significant risk to the children and teachers,” the source said.
The source further disclosed that the group had reportedly reinforced its position, making rescue operations more complex.
Military analysts said the increase in attacks in other regions appears designed to divide the attention of security agencies.
Retired Brigadier-General John Sura urged security agencies to remain focused on the rescue operation, describing the surge in attacks elsewhere as a strategic diversion.
He advised the military to deploy precise intelligence-driven operations and utilise advanced surveillance tools to improve monitoring of difficult terrain.
Another retired military officer, Brigadier-General Bashir Adewinbi, warned that the use of explosives signalled an evolving threat pattern and called for increased aerial surveillance to support rescue efforts.
Meanwhile, the Oyo State Government said it would continue to limit public disclosures on the operation to avoid jeopardising the safety of the abducted pupils and teachers.
Commissioner for Information, Dotun Oyelade, said only officially authorised updates would be released as efforts continue to secure the safe return of the victims.
The abduction comes amid a broader rise in attacks and kidnappings across different parts of the country, raising renewed concerns over security and protection of schools.
