The Federal Government is facing mounting pressure to secure the release of dozens of pupils and teachers abducted in coordinated attacks on schools in Oyo and Borno states, as emerging details reveal that difficult terrain, hostage safety concerns and demands for a terrorist-prisoner exchange have complicated ongoing rescue efforts.
Security and Presidency sources familiar with the operation said the kidnappers are demanding the release of senior Ansaru commanders currently in government custody, a condition authorities are unwilling to accept despite increasing public outrage and calls for urgent action.
The victims were abducted on May 15 after armed men attacked schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State and Mussa community in Askira-Uba Local Government Area of Borno State. The incidents shocked Nigerians because of their scale and the apparent coordination between both attacks.
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According to sources, the kidnappers are reportedly seeking the release of top Ansaru figures arrested during intelligence-led counterterrorism operations announced by the Office of the National Security Adviser in 2025.
Officials familiar with the rescue efforts said the government is caught between protecting the lives of the captives and avoiding a deal that could return dangerous terror leaders to active operations.
The challenge has been compounded by the dense forest environment where the victims are believed to be held, particularly around areas linked to the Kainji forest corridor, which security experts have repeatedly identified as a haven for armed groups operating across multiple states.
Government sources said security agencies remain cautious about launching a full-scale assault because of fears that any miscalculation could endanger the lives of the children and teachers.
The crisis has continued to generate national and international concern.
United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mohamed Malick Fall, called for the immediate and safe release of all abducted pupils and teachers, describing attacks on schools as a direct threat to education and child protection.
“Schools must remain safe havens for learning and not places of fear. Children should never be a target,” Fall said.
Amid growing criticism, the Federal Government has assured Nigerians that rescuing the victims remains a top national priority.
Speaking at a national security briefing in Abuja, Information Minister Mohammed Idris said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had directed security agencies to deploy all lawful means to secure the release of the captives.
According to the minister, intelligence agencies, the Armed Forces, police and other security institutions are conducting coordinated rescue operations involving surveillance, intelligence gathering and community engagement.
The attacks have also sparked protests nationwide.
The Nigeria Union of Teachers has threatened broader industrial action over persistent attacks on schools and the continued captivity of teachers and pupils. In Oyo State, public school teachers commenced an indefinite strike to press for stronger security measures and the immediate rescue of the victims.
Civil society groups, labour unions and student organisations have joined calls for urgent government intervention, warning that insecurity is increasingly threatening access to education across the country.
Political opposition groups have also intensified criticism of the Tinubu administration’s security record, while lawmakers continue to demand stronger protection for schools and vulnerable communities.
With the victims still in captivity weeks after the attacks in Oyo and Borno state , pressure is expected to increase on security agencies and political leaders to deliver a breakthrough in what has become one of the most troubling school abduction crises in recent years.
