According to a report by the Punch on Friday, June 5, 2026, ongoing efforts to secure the release of the pupils and teachers abducted in recent school attacks in Oyo and Borno states have reportedly been hampered by difficult terrain, concerns over the safety of the captives, and demands from the kidnappers. Sources familiar with the situation disclosed that the abductors are seeking the release of detained terrorist leaders as part of negotiations with the Federal Government.
Security and Presidency sources revealed that the kidnappers are demanding the freedom of key Ansaru commanders currently in custody, a condition authorities are unwilling to accept despite growing pressure to rescue the victims. One source explained that the standoff has contributed significantly to delays in the rescue operation, stating, “They are pressing for a swap with some high-profile terrorists who are in government custody.”
According to the sources, the attacks in Oyo and Borno were allegedly coordinated to strengthen the kidnappers’ bargaining position and increase pressure on the government. Officials also noted that conducting operations in the forested areas where the victims are believed to be held presents additional challenges for security agencies.
The Federal Government is said to be balancing the urgent need to save the abducted children and teachers with concerns that releasing captured terrorist leaders could pose a greater security threat in the future. Meanwhile, the United Nations has called for the immediate and safe release of all those abducted, describing the incidents as a serious threat to education and child protection in Nigeria.
