Father of Lieutenant killed rescuing Oyo pupils: ‘Army never told us how he died’

The family of Lieutenant Felix Ademe Isaac, the 28-year-old Nigerian Army officer killed during the operation to rescue abducted pupils and teachers in Oyo State, has accused the authorities of failing to explain the circumstances surrounding his death.

His father, Isaac Alabura, said the young officer was the hope of the family and community before his life was cut short in the line of duty.

Lieutenant Isaac died while leading troops in the rescue operation that secured the freedom of pupils and teachers abducted from three schools in Oriire Local Government Area.

The victims were taken from Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota; Community Grammar School, Esiele; and LA Primary School on May 15, 2026.

They regained their freedom on July 10 after spending 56 days in captivity.

However, conflicting accounts have emerged over how the officer died.

Some reports claimed his convoy struck explosives planted in the National Park area, while others said he stepped on a landmine allegedly placed by Ansaru fighters.

Speaking at the family’s residence in Yola, Alabura said neither the Nigerian Army nor the Oyo State Government had formally briefed the family on what happened.

He said the family learnt of the tragedy without receiving an official explanation from those involved in the operation.

“He was the hope of the family and the community,” the retired Master Warrant Officer said.

According to him, the family expected the young lieutenant to rise through the military ranks and build a distinguished career before the tragedy occurred.

Alabura disclosed that his son had recently returned from military training in Kaduna and was preparing to report for another assignment in Sokoto.

He said the officer was instead directed at about 3 p.m. to lead the rescue mission in Oyo State.

The grieving father also thanked serving and retired senior military officers who helped ensure that his son’s remains were returned to Yola for burial.

Lieutenant Isaac was buried with full military honours at the 23rd Armoured Brigade Cemetery in Adamawa State.

Alabura appealed to the Nigerian Army and the Oyo State Government to support the family, stressing that his son paid the ultimate price while serving the country.

The officer’s cousin, Tidwawa Nelson Eweh, described him as calm, intelligent and committed to national service.

Eweh said the family had believed Isaac would rise through the ranks and make significant contributions to Nigeria’s security.

He called on the authorities to immortalise the late officer and provide assistance to the family he left behind.

Lieutenant Isaac is survived by his parents, a brother and a sister.

The Nigerian Army had acknowledged that security personnel suffered casualties during the rescue operation but did not provide full details.

Governor Seyi Makinde also praised the security agencies involved and expressed condolences to the families of personnel who died during the mission.