Retired military officer Colonel Leo Abara has questioned the circumstances surrounding the rescue of the schoolchildren and teachers abducted in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
Speaking during an interview with AIT, Abara expressed disappointment that it took more than 50 days to secure the victims’ release. He also said he had not seen evidence that any kidnappers were killed or arrested during the operation.
According to Abara, the absence of visible signs of a confrontation between security operatives and the abductors raises questions about how the victims regained their freedom.
“We don’t know the conditions upon which they were released. I stand to be corrected that the violence entrepreneurs have made it again. We did not see any kidnapper captured or dead, so that means there was no confrontation. It means that maybe ransom was paid,” he said.
Abara’s remarks reflect his personal assessment of the rescue operation. Authorities have not publicly confirmed that a ransom was paid or disclosed the full operational details surrounding the victims’ release.
