Security operations linked to the Oyo abduction rescue have intensified in Oyo State as Boko Haram terrorists holding abducted pupils and teachers are reportedly trapped inside the Oyo National Park, 36 days after the May 15 attacks. Security sources say all known exit routes have been blocked, but the operation remains constrained by improvised explosive devices and shifting tactics used by the attackers.
On May 15, armed terrorists attacked three schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, abducting pupils and teachers from Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota; L.A. Primary School; and Community Grammar School, Esiele. At least 42 pupils and teachers, including a principal, were taken during the incident.
The attackers were identified as members of Jama’atu Ahlis-Sunna Lidda’Awati Wal-Jihad, commonly referred to as Boko Haram. One of the abducted teachers, Michael Oyedokun, was killed the following day, reportedly to deter advancing security forces. Since then, the Oyo abduction rescue operation has expanded into a multi-agency military effort within the Oyo National Park.
Security sources involved in the operation say terrorists have fortified their positions inside the forest and are actively planting improvised explosive devices to slow troop movement. They also reportedly change locations frequently to avoid capture.
One source said, “They have planted IEDs everywhere and our men are exploring professional methods to navigate the difficult areas.”
The same source confirmed that troops have come under attack twice, with at least three soldiers killed in separate engagements. Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde also confirmed military casualties, including a lieutenant, during a public address to protesters.
Reports indicate that the terrorists are attempting to stretch security resources by launching attacks in other parts of the country to divert attention from the Oyo abduction rescue operation. A former lawmaker familiar with the situation said intelligence suggested coordinated diversionary attacks in northern Nigeria.
He stated, “From intelligence reports, we got to know that the terrorists deliberately increased the tempo of attacks on innocent citizens and communities just to distract the security operatives from forging ahead with the rescue operation.”
Security sources also disclosed that abducted pupils and teachers are being used as human shields, complicating direct assault options. One source said operational constraints are driven by the risk of civilian casualties.
“They’re using their victims as shields, and we don’t want a situation where they would begin to kill those children,” the source said.
The same source added that over 200 terrorists may be positioned within the forest area holding the victims. Despite this, security operatives maintain that the group is surrounded and unable to exit the forest.
Retired Brigadier-General John Sura described the wider security situation as a deliberate tactic to stretch military capacity, urging consolidated efforts and stronger intelligence coordination, including improved use of NIGCOMSAT for surveillance support in the Oyo abduction rescue operation.
Another retired Brigadier-General, Bashir Adewinbi, said the attackers have become more sophisticated, warning that the use of explosives is altering operational dynamics and turning parts of the forest into high-risk zones.
The prolonged Oyo abduction rescue operation highlights the complexity of hostage recovery missions in forested terrains where armed groups deploy asymmetric tactics. The use of improvised explosive devices, hostage shielding, and mobility strategies has significantly slowed military advances and increased operational risks.
The situation also reflects broader national security pressures, as multiple attacks across different states continue to stretch security resources. Analysts and retired military officers have warned that coordinated attacks may be aimed at dispersing forces engaged in the Oyo operation.
The Oyo State Government has stated that operational details will remain restricted to avoid jeopardising the lives of abducted pupils and teachers. Security forces continue to maintain positions around the Oyo National Park while refining tactical approaches to the Oyo abduction rescue operation. Authorities say efforts remain ongoing to secure the safe release of all victims without further escalation of casualties.
