The abduction of students and teachers from a secondary school in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State has continued to generate concern across the country as families of the victims mount pressure on the government to secure their release.
Suspected gunmen had reportedly abducted 39 students and seven teachers from Community High School in Ahoro Esinele community. The incident also left one of the teachers, Michael Oyedokun, reportedly beheaded by the attackers.
Sources familiar with the development disclosed that the kidnappers have now opened communication channels and demanded ransom for the release of the victims.
Although the exact amount being demanded has not been made public, negotiations are said to be ongoing through indirect channels.
One source disclosed that authorities are deliberately keeping details of the discussions confidential while efforts continue to rescue the victims safely.
Security Agencies Intensify Rescue Operations
Security agencies have reportedly increased surveillance across forest areas suspected to be hideouts for the abductors.
Sources said a police helicopter has been placed on standby in what officials described as an “area of interest,” while military jets have continued daily aerial patrols over forests in parts of the state.
The rescue efforts are reportedly being coordinated jointly by the Oyo State Government, the Police, the Military and the Department of State Services, DSS.
Another source stated that families of the victims have continued to pressure the government to meet the kidnappers’ demands in order to secure the immediate release of their loved ones.
According to the source, the state government remains committed to ensuring the safe return of all victims.
“Human lives are more important than money and ego,” the source reportedly said while speaking on ongoing efforts.
Family of Slain Teacher Demands Recovery of Body
Meanwhile, the family of the late teacher, Mr Oyedokun Olugbade, has appealed to the Federal Government to help recover his remains for proper burial.
In a letter addressed to President Bola Tinubu through their lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, the family described the killing as tragic and heartbreaking.
The family said despite widespread reactions following the incident, the remains of the deceased teacher have yet to be recovered.
They appealed to security agencies to intensify efforts toward locating the body and rescuing other victims still being held captive.
The letter also urged the Federal Government to intervene urgently and ensure justice for the victims and their families.
Growing Concern Over Insecurity
The latest incident has again raised concerns over insecurity in several parts of the country, especially attacks targeting schools and rural communities.
Residents in affected areas have called for stronger security measures to prevent further attacks and protect vulnerable communities from criminal groups.
Authorities in Oyo State are yet to officially confirm whether negotiations with the kidnappers are ongoing. However, security operations in the area are said to have intensified in recent days.
