Oyo Government Denies Ransom Claims in Abduction Case

The Oyo State Government, represented by Dotun Oyelad, dismissed claims that a ransom was paid for the release of schoolchildren and a teacher abducted by bandits in Oriire Local Government Area. Oyelad characterized the allegations as false and misleading, labeling them as an irresponsible attempt by bloggers to create confusion and misinform the public.

He emphasized that while the Oyo State Government and federal authorities made concerted efforts to secure the safe release of the abducted individuals, no ransom was paid, either directly or indirectly, to the bandits. Oyelad urged the public to disregard the misleading reports and to rely on information from official government channels.

The abduction incident occurred on May 15, when bandits attacked a school in the area, leading to the kidnapping of the teacher and several schoolchildren. The government is working closely with security agencies to ensure the safe return of the abducted individuals.