Oyo Schools Abduction: Terrorists Open Channels For Negotiation

Suspected terrorists who abducted pupils and teachers from schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State have opened communication with the state government, as efforts intensify to secure the release of the victims.

Security sources quoted by local media say the abductors have insisted on speaking only with Governor Seyi Makinde or authorised representatives of the state government, refusing any direct contact with the families of the victims. 

The sources also say the group has not disclosed its demands, amid concerns that public disclosure could jeopardise ongoing efforts and put the lives of the abductees at greater risk.

The incident is linked to coordinated attacks carried out on 15 May in Esinele, Yamota and Alawusa communities in Oriire Local Government Area. During the attacks, pupils, teachers and other school staff were abducted from different schools, while a teacher and a commercial motorcyclist were reportedly killed, according to security accounts from the area.

Governor Seyi Makinde had earlier confirmed the abductions and directed security agencies, including the police, military, Amotekun Corps and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, to intensify search-and-rescue operations. The Inspector-General of Police also visited the affected communities and ordered expanded tactical deployments across forest routes linking Oyo State with neighbouring areas.

A senior security source described the development as a “cautious breakthrough”, saying the opening of communication is a significant step, although negotiations remain highly sensitive. The source explained that the difficult terrain and suspected movement of the victims through forest corridors continue to complicate rescue efforts.

Meanwhile, tension remains high across affected communities, with parents and teachers expressing growing concern over the safety of the abducted pupils and staff. Schools in parts of Ogbomoso and surrounding areas have recorded low attendance as fear persists over possible further attacks and the security situation in rural school environments.

Source: Punch