‘We Heard Our Teacher’s Cries Before He Was Killed’: Rescued Oyo Schoolboy Recalls Michael Oyedokun’s Final Moments

16th July, 2026 | News

Rescued Oyo Schoolboy Recounts Harrowing Weeks in Kidnappers’ Den

Fifteen-year-old Bello Hassan, one of the pupils rescued after the mass abduction of students and teachers from schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, has shared a heartbreaking account of his time in captivity.

Bello said the kidnappers stormed the school while students were writing examinations, firing gunshots and forcing everyone into the bush. He recalled trekking for several hours before arriving at the location where they were held.

According to him, the captives were constantly moved from one hideout to another, making it difficult for security forces to track them. Although the kidnappers provided food, they kept the victims under strict surveillance throughout their captivity. Bello said the abductors initially cooked for the hostages, later allowed some of the women to prepare meals, before eventually taking over the cooking again.

The teenager described being separated from his parents as one of the most traumatic parts of the ordeal. He also recalled the killing of his teacher, Mr. Michael Oyedokun, saying the teacher was taken away before the captives heard his cries. He added that another victim, identified as Deacon, was also killed.

Bello said the kidnappers communicated in English, Hausa, and Fulani, and during rainfall, they covered the captives with nylon sheets. The victims only received fresh clothing after regaining their freedom.

Despite the traumatic experience, Bello expressed hope of returning to school if conditions become safe, saying he still believes in the importance of education.

The pupils and teachers were rescued after a coordinated security operation forced the kidnappers to abandon the hostages while fleeing through the forest, bringing an end to nearly two months of captivity following the May 15, 2026 school attack.