Oyo school abduction: Terrorists open talks with Makinde Government

Fresh details have emerged in the shocking abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State, as suspected terrorists behind the attack reportedly opened communication channels with the state government while fear continues to spread across affected communities.

The abduction, which occurred in Esinele, Yamota and Alawusa communities in Oriire Local Government Area, has triggered panic among parents, teachers and residents, leading to a drastic drop in school attendance across Ogbomoso and neighbouring towns.

The victims, including toddlers reportedly aged between two and three years, have now spent more than a week in captivity, raising concerns about their safety amid worsening weather conditions and insecurity in the region.

Terrorists Reportedly Demand Direct Talks With Oyo Government

According to Saturday PUNCH, the abductors have refused to negotiate with victims’ families and instead demanded direct communication with the Oyo State Government.

The sources revealed that the terrorists specifically requested discussions with Governor Seyi Makinde or representatives of the administration.

The exact demands of the abductors remain undisclosed, as authorities reportedly fear that revealing sensitive details could endanger the lives of the captives.

A senior source close to the situation described the communication as a “relief,” noting that while security agencies were actively working on rescue operations, the risks involved in forceful intervention remained extremely high.

The Special Adviser to the Governor on Security, Abayomi Fagbenro, declined to provide further comments regarding the ongoing negotiations.

Fear Grips Ogbomoso as Schools Empty Over Security Concerns

The kidnapping has sparked widespread fear across schools in Ogbomoso and surrounding communities including Ikose, Ikoyi, Tewure and Dananu.

Several teachers disclosed that attendance in both public and private schools dropped significantly after news of the attack spread.

Parents reportedly withdrew children from classrooms due to fears of additional attacks, while rumours and unverified videos circulating online intensified panic within the communities.

One teacher from Ikose Primary School explained that many schools had remained nearly empty since the incident occurred.

The situation escalated further after students at Areago Grammar School reportedly mistook hunters in nearby bushes for armed terrorists, causing a stampede and widespread chaos within the community.

The panic reportedly led to the death of a student who was hit by a vehicle while fleeing. His mother was also said to have died after hearing the tragic news.

Teachers Traumatised After Colleagues Were Killed

Anxiety among education workers worsened after two teachers linked to the abduction incident lost their lives.

A former Assistant Headmaster of L.A. Primary School, Joel Adesiyan, was killed during the attack, while another teacher, Michael Oyedokun, was reportedly beheaded in captivity.

Teachers described the killings as deeply traumatising, with many expressing fears about returning to remote schools located near forest corridors often exploited by criminal groups.

Several educators admitted they were considering staying away from rural communities until stronger security measures were introduced.

During the burial ceremony of Adesiyan in Ogbomoso, emotional scenes unfolded as colleagues, relatives and government officials paid tribute to the late teacher.

Governor Makinde, represented by officials at the funeral service, assured residents that efforts were ongoing to secure the safe return of the abducted victims.

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Family of Slain Teacher Speaks on Painful Loss

The family of Michael Oyedokun described his death as heartbreaking and irreplaceable.

According to relatives, the late teacher dedicated over two decades to educating children in public schools across Oyo State.

Family spokesperson Ebeni Adediran revealed that Oyedokun died without leaving behind a child despite being married for more than 10 years.

The family also appealed to Nigerians to stop circulating disturbing videos and graphic images allegedly showing the teacher’s killing, stating that the content was worsening their emotional trauma.

Oyo Government Blames Fake News for Rising Panic

The Oyo State Commissioner for Information, Dotun Oyelade, accused some social media users and bloggers of spreading misleading videos capable of escalating fear among residents.

He stated that while the government understood public concerns, misinformation had significantly worsened anxiety across schools and communities.

Authorities also reiterated that security agencies remained actively engaged in efforts to rescue the victims and restore confidence within affected areas.

Growing Concerns Over School Safety in Nigeria

The Oyo abduction has once again reignited national conversations around insecurity in Nigerian schools, especially in rural communities vulnerable to attacks by armed groups.

Parents, teachers and education advocates continue to demand increased security presence around schools and better protection for students and educators in remote areas.

Security experts have also warned that repeated attacks on schools could worsen educational disruption and deepen fear among families already struggling with insecurity across different parts of the country.

FAQ

What happened in the Oyo school abduction incident?

Suspected terrorists abducted pupils and teachers from schools located in Esinele, Yamota and Alawusa communities in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

How many people were kidnapped in the Oyo school attack?

Authorities have not officially confirmed the exact number of abducted victims, but reports indicate that several pupils, toddlers and teachers were taken.

Have the terrorists contacted the Oyo State Government?

Yes. Sources revealed that the abductors reportedly opened communication channels with the Oyo State Government and demanded direct negotiations.

What are the kidnappers demanding?

The exact demands have not been publicly disclosed because authorities fear it could jeopardise rescue efforts and the safety of the victims.

Who are the victims of the Oyo school kidnapping?

The victims include schoolchildren, toddlers aged between two and three years, and teachers from affected schools in Oriire LGA.

Were any teachers killed during the Oyo attack?

Yes. Teacher Joel Adesiyan was killed during the attack, while another teacher, Michael Oyedokun, was reportedly killed in captivity.

Why are schools closing in Ogbomoso and nearby communities?

Fear and insecurity following the abduction have caused many parents to keep their children at home, leading to low attendance in schools.

What has Governor Seyi Makinde said about the kidnapping?

Governor Seyi Makinde assured residents that the government and security agencies were working to secure the safe return of the abducted victims.

Is Oyo State currently safe for students?

Concerns about safety remain high, especially in rural communities close to forests where armed groups reportedly operate.

What is the government doing to improve school security?

The government said security agencies are actively handling the situation, while residents continue to demand stronger security presence around schools.