The Defence Headquarters has confirmed that troops involved in rescue operations for abducted pupils and teachers in Oyo State have established contact with the kidnappers.
Drivetvnews gathered that the military also dismissed reports claiming that terrorist groups have set up permanent bases in the South-West, describing the recent attacks in Oyo State as isolated criminal activities rather than signs of an organised insurgency.
The development follows the abduction of students and staff from Baptist Nursery and Primary School in Yawota, Community Grammar School in Ahoro-Esinele, and L.A. Primary School in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
Speaking on Tuesday, the Director of Defence Media Relations, Major General Michael Onoja, said the Armed Forces were fully committed to securing the safe release of the victims. According to him, troops made direct contact with the kidnappers two days earlier and have since continued coordinated pursuit operations.
He explained that security personnel are carrying out joint missions across forests and remote areas in collaboration with other security agencies. The military is also working closely with residents and local vigilante groups to gather useful intelligence that could aid rescue efforts.
Onoja assured Nigerians that the Armed Forces would continue operations until all victims were rescued and those responsible for the abductions were brought to justice.
The Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, expressed sympathy to the affected families and the Oyo State Government, describing the kidnapping of innocent schoolchildren and teachers as cruel and unacceptable.
The Defence Headquarters further rejected claims that terrorists had established a stronghold in the South-West. Onoja stated that previous military operations in the Old Oyo National Park had weakened criminal groups operating in the area.
He added that current intelligence reports do not indicate the existence of any organised terrorist base in the region, warning against spreading narratives capable of causing panic among residents.
