Police deny ransom demand in Oyo schoolchildren abduction case

The Nigeria Police Force has stated it is not aware of any ransom demand from those responsible for the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State. Deputy Inspector General Adegoke Fayoad, the south-west coordinator for the police, made this declaration during an official visit to the Lagos State Police Command headquarters in Ikeja on Monday.

Fayoad indicated that the police force will not engage in ransom negotiations with the abductors. Instead, he emphasised that security operations are being coordinated across multiple agencies to secure the safe release of the victims within the shortest possible timeframe.

The police leadership assured the public that coordinated rescue efforts are underway involving government bodies and security agencies working in concert. The Deputy Inspector General stressed that the focus of security operations remains on the actual rescue of the abducted pupils and teachers rather than any financial arrangements.

He urged the public to be kept informed through official channels and indicated that personnel and security strategies are being enhanced to support the ongoing operation. The statement comes as reports of the abduction have circulated across south-west Nigeria.

Fayoad's remarks represent the first official police position on whether kidnappers have made financial demands, with the force prioritising operational secrecy and direct rescue efforts over public disclosure of negotiation details.