Lieutenant Felix Isaac laid to rest after dying in Oyo schoolchildren rescue operation

Lt. Felix Ademe Isaac, 28 years old, an officer in the Nigerian Army who lost his life in the rescue mission of teachers and pupils abducted from Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, has been accorded a befitting burial.

The soldier was shot dead while commanding forces on the mission which led to their rescue on July 10, 2026.

Pupils and teachers had been abducted on May 15, 2026, when gunmen attacked Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota; Community Grammar School, Esiele; and LA Primary School.

There have been conflicting statements regarding how the officer died. While some media outlets reported that his convoy was blown up by explosives placed by terrorists in the Old Oyo National Park, others have reported that the officer died after stepping on a landmine which was allegedly planted by Ansaru terrorists.

Lt. Felix was born on August 25, 1997, and he was buried with military rites at 23 Armoured Brigade Cemetery, Yola, Adamawa State, on July 10, 2026.

He was one of the officers who lost their lives in the rescue mission.

Confirming casualties among troops, the Nigerian Army had stated: “It suffices to note that the operations were carefully planned and executed to avoid collateral damages and to equally ensure that the innocent children and teachers were safely rescued. However, there were some casualties on the part of the security forces.”

Reacting to the successful rescue, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde expressed appreciation to the security agencies for their sacrifices.

“Really grateful for the safe return of the children and teachers abducted from Oriire LGA 56 days ago. Our priority now is to ensure they are reunited with their families and support their rehabilitation after this traumatic experience.

“We also commend the security agencies that took part in the rescue operations for their sacrifices. May the souls of those who paid the ultimate price rest in peace and may God comfort their families,” the governor said.

The rescue operation involved personnel from more than 10 security agencies and was led by the General Officer Commanding 2 Division of the Nigerian Army, Major General Chinedu Ralph Nnebeife.

Tributes have continued to pour in for the fallen officer.

Oyo Affairs described him as one of the officers mentioned by Governor Makinde who paid the supreme sacrifice while trying to rescue the abducted teachers and schoolchildren.

Another tribute shared by Sir Kay on X described Lt. Isaac as “a gallant Nigerian Army officer” who exemplified selfless service, professionalism and unwavering commitment to duty.

Toju Weston also wrote that while many Nigerians celebrated the return of the hostages, Lt. Isaac’s family was mourning his loss, adding, “Rest easy soldier, your sacrifice was not in vain, the kids are back.”

Others, including friends and social media users, called for his sacrifice to be immortalised, saying his courage and dedication should never be forgotten.