Oyo State, Nigeria kidnapping crisis: rescue of woman and child, and ongoing search for school abductees

Activist Sunday Igboho’s Iru Ekun Security Network, working with the Nigeria Police Force’s Intelligence Response Team, rescued a woman, Adijat Kubura Aliqlas, and her son, Abdulmalik, who had been kidnapped in Igbope, Oyo State. After a three‑day operation and a gun‑battle in a forest near Kwara, the abductors fled wounded and the victims were taken to Igboho General Hospital for medical care.

Separately, the mass kidnapping of 46 children and teachers at Ahoro Esinele in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State remains unresolved after more than 50 days. The Oyo State government, represented by Commissioner for Information Prince Dotun Oyelade, denied that any ransom was paid and said federal and state security agencies continue efforts to secure the captives’ release. The incident has spurred public concern over possible political interference and the coordination of security responses.