Abducted schoolchildren in Oyo, Borno face health risks after 54 days
On May 15, 2026, militants attacked schools in Oyo's Oriire LGA (Baptist Nursery & Primary, L.A. Primary, Community Grammar School) and Borno's Askira-Uba LGA (Central Primary School, Mussa village), abducting at least 39 pupils and seven teachers in Oyo and about 50 children in Borno. A video showed the beheading of teacher Michael Oyedokun; police denied reports of a pupil's death. The Oyo hostages are believed held in Old Oyo National Park, while many Borno children remain in the forest amid heavy rain.
Pediatrician Dr Hope Adejor warned that prolonged exposure to cold, wet conditions puts children as young as four at risk of pneumonia, malaria, asthma, hypothermia, leptospirosis, dengue and other life-threatening illnesses. Security forces say operations are ongoing but many victims remain unaccounted for, and families await news of their loved ones.
Oyo State Police PPRO Olayinka Olushola and Borno State PPRO ASP Daso Nahum Kenneth say rescue efforts are underway, with the military leading in Borno under Operation HADIN KAI. The Chief of Army Staff said troops are making progress in Oyo. Families should follow official channels for updates and avoid spreading unverified claims about deaths or ransom payments.