The Oyo State Government has dismissed reports alleging that ransom was paid to secure the release of schoolchildren and teachers abducted by bandits in Oriire Local Government Area, describing the claims as false, misleading and intended to create unnecessary panic among residents.
The state government said no payment had been made to the kidnappers, either directly or indirectly, despite ongoing efforts by security agencies and government authorities to secure the freedom of the victims.
In a statement issued on Friday, the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dotun Oyelade, described the reports as “far from the truth” and accused what he called irresponsible bloggers of spreading misinformation.
“Although both the Oyo State and Federal Governments have been making concerted efforts to secure the safe release of the abducted children and their teachers, no ransom has been paid to the bandits, either directly or indirectly,” Oyelade stated.
He urged members of the public to ignore unverified reports and rely only on information released through official government channels.
According to him, the state government remains committed to working closely with security agencies to ensure the safe return of the abducted pupils and teachers.
“The Oyo State Government is collaborating with relevant security agencies to secure the release of the abductees and bring this unfortunate incident to a successful conclusion,” he added.
The abduction occurred on May 15 when armed bandits launched coordinated attacks on schools in Yawota and Ahoro-Esienle communities in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
During the attack, several pupils and teachers from three schools were abducted, while a teacher reportedly lost his life.Since the incident, the victims have remained in captivity, prompting sustained rescue efforts by security agencies, with support from both the Oyo State and Federal Governments.
The kidnapping drew widespread condemnation from education stakeholders, community leaders and civil society groups, who have continued to call for intensified security operations to secure the victims’ release and prevent similar attacks on schools.
Authorities have reiterated their commitment to ensuring the safe rescue of the abductees while pursuing those responsible for the attack.
