Victim says abductors released hostages before security arrival, raising fresh questions over official claims

A dramatic twist has emerged in the Oyo State abduction saga, with one of the freed victims disputing the Federal Government’s claim that security forces rescued the captives.

Zacchaeus Olatunde, a teacher who spent 56 days in captivity, said he and other hostages were released by their abductors before encountering security operatives.

Speaking during a telephone interview with Nigeria Info FM, Olatunde explained that the kidnappers’ commander personally announced their freedom, bringing an unexpected end to weeks of uncertainty.

According to him, the captives—who had been blindfolded throughout their ordeal and had no idea where they were held—were told to thank God for their release before being allowed to remove their blindfolds.

He said after regaining their freedom, the group trekked for about an hour before the kidnappers provided motorcycles to help them reach a nearby village. They continued their journey on foot until they eventually came across security personnel.

Olatunde noted that the initial encounter with the operatives was tense, as the freed victims were unsure of their identity. He said the officers spoke Hausa and arrived in unmarked buses bearing Arabic inscriptions, which heightened their suspicion.

The former hostages reportedly demanded identification before they were convinced they were in safe hands.

He added that the abductors communicated in multiple languages, including Hausa, Nupe, English and Yoruba, and claimed affiliation with the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), insisting they were not Boko Haram.

Olatunde also recounted the difficult conditions in captivity. He said the victims were unable to bathe or change clothes for the entire 56-day period and were fed simple meals twice daily. Religious activities were initially restricted, though limited prayers were later allowed under strict conditions.

Despite the ordeal, he expressed gratitude for surviving the experience, attributing their release to prayers offered on their behalf.

The teacher further revealed that he has yet to receive any financial assistance following his release, urging authorities to prioritise support for his school.

The account contrasts sharply with the Presidency’s position, which described the development as a successful rescue operation by security forces.

While Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde confirmed the victims’ release and called for an international investigation into the incident, presidential aide Bayo Onanuga has defended the official narrative.

The abduction, which took place in May in Oriire Local Government Area, had drawn nationwide concern and renewed focus on insecurity in the region. Olatunde’s testimony is now raising new questions about how the victims truly regained their freedom.