Oyo Gov't Reacts to Ransom Payment Claims Over School Abduction
The Oyo State Government has dismissed reports alleging that it paid ransom to secure the release of pupils and teachers abducted by gunmen in Oriire Local Government Area, describing the claims as false and misleading.
In a statement issued on Friday, the Commissioner for Information, Dotun Oyelade, said reports circulating on social media suggesting that the government negotiated or paid ransom to the abductors were "far from the truth" and were intended to misinform the public.
"Although both the Oyo State Government and the Federal Government have been making concerted efforts to secure the safe release of the abducted children and their teachers, no ransom has been paid to the bandits, either directly or indirectly," Oyelade said.
He urged members of the public to disregard the reports and rely only on information released through official government channels, stressing that the administration remains committed to ensuring the safe return of all those still in captivity.
The commissioner said the state government is working closely with security agencies to rescue the victims and bring the incident to a successful conclusion.
Gunmen abducted pupils and teachers from three schools in the Yawota and Ahoro-Esienle communities of Oriire Local Government Area on May 15 during a coordinated attack that also claimed the life of a teacher.
The abductees have remained in captivity since the incident, while security agencies, in collaboration with the Oyo State and Federal Governments, continue efforts to secure their unconditional release.
The government reaffirmed its commitment to the safety of residents and urged the public to support ongoing security operations by relying on verified information and avoiding the spread of unsubstantiated reports.
Source: Punch
Tags: #OyoState #SchoolAbduction #Security
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