President Bola Tinubu has disclosed that the Ansaru terrorist group was responsible for the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

The President made the revelation on Friday in a personally signed statement released shortly after the Presidency confirmed the successful rescue of the victims.

Naijapunchnews reports that Tinubu said the safe return of the pupils and teachers was a moment of gratitude for the nation, describing the operation as a significant victory against terrorism.

He commended the security forces for their professionalism, courage, and discipline, noting that their efforts ensured the victims were rescued alive and unharmed.

According to the President, no ransom was paid and no concessions were granted to the abductors during the rescue operation.

Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s determination to confront terrorism and other forms of violent crime, stressing that the government would continue to pursue those responsible for attacks on innocent Nigerians.

He warned terrorist groups that the Nigerian state would not surrender to intimidation, promising that security agencies would relentlessly track and dismantle criminal networks threatening the country’s peace.

In the statement, the President said:

“Tonight, our nation has reason to give thanks.

“The children and teachers abducted by Ansaru terrorists in Oyo State have been rescued by our security forces, alive and unharmed. No ransom was paid. No concession was made.

“I salute every officer and operative whose courage, discipline, and professionalism made this possible.

“To those who seek to spread fear through terror, know that the Nigerian state will pursue you relentlessly. We will protect our people, defend our communities, and never relent until peace and security prevail across our country.”

The rescue of the victims comes after more than 50 days in captivity and marks the end of an operation involving multiple security agencies.

The incident had sparked widespread concern across Oyo State, with Governor Seyi Makinde earlier describing it as the first major security breach in the state after several years of relative peace. The governor had also assured residents that his administration was working closely with security agencies to secure the victims’ release.

The successful operation is expected to boost public confidence in ongoing counterterrorism efforts, even as authorities continue investigations aimed at apprehending other members of the Ansaru terrorist network and preventing similar attacks in the future.