A former operative of the Department of State Services (DSS), Seyi Adetayo, has revealed how Nigerian security agencies allegedly employed intelligence-driven tactics to secure the release of pupils and teachers abducted in Oyo State, saying the operation was concluded without paying ransom or releasing any detained terrorist as demanded by the kidnappers.
The former intelligence officer said security operatives systematically dismantled the abductors’ support network by gathering intelligence on their relatives, associates, supply routes and hideouts before mounting sustained pressure that eventually forced the terrorists to free their captives after 56 days.
Speaking during an interview on TVC News, Adetayo explained that the operation relied on a combination of intelligence gathering, strategic pressure and negotiations to ensure the victims were rescued alive.
According to him, investigators tracked down individuals closely connected to the kidnappers, including family members and other associates.
“They identified the kidnappers’ mothers, wives, children, and close associates. They arrested them, recorded videos, and sent them to the abductors,” Adetayo said.
He noted that the arrests formed part of a broader intelligence strategy aimed at cutting off the kidnappers from their support base and weakening their ability to continue holding the victims.
Adetayo added that security personnel also disrupted the group’s logistics, blocked access routes to their camps and severed supply lines while maintaining negotiations that ultimately led to the safe release of the abducted pupils and teachers.
He stressed that the operation ended without the payment of ransom or any prisoner exchange.
The disclosure follows the Presidency’s confirmation that the victims regained their freedom during a coordinated security operation involving multiple security agencies.
Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said eight suspected kidnappers were arrested and are currently in the custody of the DSS, while several others were neutralised during the rescue mission.
“In the course of the rescue operation, eight of the kidnappers were arrested and are now in DSS custody, while some of them were neutralised,” Onanuga said.
The presidential spokesman also dismissed claims that the Federal Government agreed to the kidnappers’ demand for the release of one of their leaders.
“There was no quid pro quo in the rescue, as one of the terrorists, a kingpin, whose release the kidnappers demanded, is being prosecuted for his atrocities. The security agencies will give a full account soon,” he stated.
Following their release, the rescued pupils and teachers expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu and the security agencies for securing their freedom.
In a video released after the operation, one of the victims thanked the President for his commitment to their rescue.
“We are grateful, Mr President, sir. We understand your commitment to our safety, and we appreciate all you did for us. We could see it in your heart. Thank you very much,” the victim said.
