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  • Pastor Adeboye Says God Revealed Abducted Oyo Schoolchildren Will Be Freed “Dramatically”

    Pastor Enoch Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), has said God revealed to him that the abducted schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State will be released in a dramatic manner.

    The cleric made the statement during a church programme, saying the revelation renewed his confidence that the victims would regain their freedom.

    ‘God Told Me Their Release Will Be Dramatic’

    According to Adeboye, God spoke to him about the incident but did not disclose when or how the victims would be released.

    “God is moving in Nigeria. God spoke to me concerning the release of the kidnapped Oyo schoolchildren and teachers. He told me it would be dramatic,” he said.

    He added that God instructed him not to be concerned about the timing or process of the release, assuring him that everything was under divine control.

    “Though He didn’t reveal the time or details, He asked me to leave that aspect in His hands and said He would later speak to me about what would happen after this particular incident,” he added.

    Mixed Reactions Trail Prophecy

    Adeboye’s comments have generated reactions on social media, with many Christians expressing hope that the victims would soon regain their freedom.

    Others, however, called for intensified rescue operations by security agencies, insisting that every effort should be made to secure the safe return of the abducted pupils and teachers.

    The statement comes as concern continues to grow over the fate of the victims, with Nigerians awaiting further developments on efforts to rescue them.

  • Kidnapped Oyo School Principal Rejects Ransom Claims, Reveals Fresh Demand by Abductors

    A principal abducted during the attack on three schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State has released a new video from captivity, dismissing reports that the terrorists demanded ransom, vehicles or the implementation of Sharia law for their release.

    Mrs. Alamu, the principal held by the abductors, said in the video that the demands circulating online are false and are complicating efforts to secure their freedom.

    The victims have now spent 24 days in captivity following the attack that led to the abduction of about 45 pupils and teachers.

    Principal Speaks From Captivity

    In the video, Mrs. Alamu said the abductors showed them reports claiming they demanded N1 billion, the implementation of Sharia law and other conditions.

    According to her, the reports do not reflect the actual position of the kidnappers.

    “Today marks the 24th day we have been in this place, and it seems that some people are making our case complicated already. We were shown some print media that these people who abducted us requested a billion naira and requested Sharia to be entrenched in the country. These are not true,” she said.

    She insisted that the abductors were not demanding money, weapons or religious laws.

    “They are not asking for Sharia law, they are not asking for money, the single thing they are asking for is the release of their people,” she added.

    Appeal Against Politicising Their Situation

    The principal appealed to authorities and the public not to politicise the abduction, warning that misinformation could affect negotiations.

    “They are not asking for Sharia law, they are not asking for weapons, they are not asking for money, all they are asking for is the release of some people and negotiation. Don’t play politics with our lives,” she said.

    Earlier Reports Linked Demands to Terror Suspects

    The latest video comes days after reports claimed the abductors demanded the release of detained terrorist commanders, ransom payments, two Hilux vehicles and the implementation of Sharia-related policies.

    According to reports, two of the individuals allegedly being requested are Mahmud Usman, also known as Abu Bara’a or Abbas Mukhtar, and his deputy, Abubakar Abba, alias Isah Adam or Mahmud Al-Nigeri.

    The suspects are said to be leaders of Jama’atu Ansarul Muslimeena Fii Bilaadis Sudan (Ansaru), a faction that broke away from Boko Haram.

    They were reportedly arrested in 2025 and are currently standing trial before the Federal High Court in Abuja on terrorism-related charges.

    Government Yet to Respond

    Authorities have not officially commented on the claims made in the latest video.

    The abduction of the pupils and teachers has continued to generate concern across Oyo State, with families and residents calling for urgent action to secure the release of those still being held.

     

  • Oyo Police Launch Investigation Into Abduction of Adelabu’s Sister, Twin Sons in Ibadan

    The Oyo State Police Command has commenced investigation into the abduction of the younger sister of former Minister of Power and APC gubernatorial aspirant, Bayo Adelabu, alongside her twin sons in Ibadan, Oyo State.

    The victims were kidnapped in the early hours of Wednesday in a case that has drawn renewed attention to rising insecurity in the state.

    Police Begin Investigation

    In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, the command said it had launched an immediate investigation into the incident.

    According to the statement, the Commissioner of Police directed the Divisional Police Officer of Challenge Division and other tactical teams to move to the scene shortly after the incident was reported.

    The victim’s vehicle was reportedly recovered at the location where the abduction took place.

    Rescue Efforts Underway

    The police assured residents that all necessary resources had been deployed to ensure the safe rescue of the victims and the arrest of those responsible.

    It added that investigations were ongoing to determine the circumstances surrounding the abduction and track the perpetrators.

    Residents were urged to remain calm and assist security agencies with any useful information that could support ongoing operations.

    Family Confirms Incident

    Earlier, the family confirmed the abduction through a statement issued by the media aide to Bayo Adelabu, Femi Awogboro.

    He said Mrs. Olaide Busayo Adegoke John-Paul, 43, was abducted at about 7:30 a.m. while taking her twin sons, Peter and Paul, to school in Ibadan.

    The family described the incident as distressing and appealed for public support and prayers.

    Rising Security Concerns

    The incident comes weeks after a separate attack in the Oriire axis of Oyo State, where gunmen invaded communities, killing a teacher and abducting dozens of pupils and teachers.

    Security agencies say rescue operations are ongoing, even as concerns continue to grow over repeated attacks targeting schools and civilians in the state.

  • Abducted Oyo School Principal Pleads for Government Action in Viral Captivity Video

    A viral video showing Mrs Rachael Alamu, the abducted principal of Community High School, Esiele in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, has intensified public concern over the continued captivity of teachers and students kidnapped in the region.

    The 72-second clip, shared on X, shows the visibly distressed school principal appealing directly to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, and education stakeholders to urgently intervene and secure their release.

    Abducted Principal Speaks From Captivity

    In the video, Mrs Alamu, appearing weakened and emotional, said she and other victims had spent days in harsh conditions since their abduction.

    “We have been picked from work and still now we are sitting in the bush,” she said, pleading for urgent rescue efforts.

    She also called for negotiation with the abductors rather than force, stressing that the situation required immediate dialogue to save lives.

    “We are in the cold, under sun, rain. The children as well. Please don’t let them waste our lives,” she added.

    Renewed Pressure on Government and Security Agencies

    The video emerged on the same day education workers and stakeholders in Oyo State staged peaceful demonstrations in Ibadan and Ogbomoso, demanding urgent rescue operations for the abducted victims.

    Reports indicate that the May 15 attack on schools in the Ahoro-Esiele community led to the killing of a mathematics teacher and the abduction of about 39 students and seven teachers.

    Victims reportedly include very young children, heightening national outrage over the scale of the attack.

    Ongoing Rescue Operations

    As of May 29, 2026, no official rescue has been confirmed, despite coordinated operations involving the military, police, Nigerian Air Force, and local vigilantes.

    Governor Seyi Makinde has assured residents that security agencies are working round the clock to secure the release of the victims, while federal authorities continue to monitor the situation.

    Security sources say operations remain active in the affected forest corridors, though details are being restricted for operational reasons.

    Public Outrage and Growing Security Concerns

    The viral video has triggered widespread reactions across social media, with Nigerians expressing frustration over the prolonged captivity and the persistence of school kidnappings in the country.

    Many have called for faster intervention, improved intelligence operations, and stronger protection for schools in vulnerable areas.

    The incident adds to growing concerns over insecurity in parts of Nigeria, particularly attacks targeting educational institutions, which have continued to raise fears among parents and communities.

    Authorities have urged calm while assuring that efforts to rescue the abducted victims are ongoing.

  • Oyo Teachers Stage Solidarity Walk in Ibadan Over Abducted Students, Demand Immediate Rescue

    Hundreds of teachers in Oyo State on Friday staged a peaceful solidarity walk in Ibadan, demanding the immediate release of students, pupils, and colleagues abducted during the May 15 attack on schools in Oriire Local Government Area.

    The protest, organised under the Oyo Teachers Action Group with support from the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) and civil society organisations, highlighted growing frustration over the continued captivity of victims more than two weeks after the incident.

    Teachers March Through Ibadan

    The demonstrators gathered at the Item 7 axis of Iwo Road and marched towards the Oyo State Secretariat, carrying placards and chanting solidarity songs as they called for urgent government action.

    Placards displayed messages such as “Bring Back Our School Children and Colleagues,” “Teachers’ Lives Matter,” and “Enough is Enough,” reflecting mounting public anger over repeated school attacks in the state.

    Security operatives were seen monitoring the procession, while the protest reportedly remained peaceful and did not disrupt traffic flow in the area.

    Wider Spread of Solidarity Actions

    Similar coordinated demonstrations were also reported in other parts of the state, including Ogbomoso, Iseyin, and Oyo town, as pressure builds on authorities to secure the release of abducted victims.

    Organisers warned that further actions could follow if there is no progress in rescue efforts, including the possibility of school closures in affected areas.

    Background of Oriire School Attack

    The protest is linked to the May 15 attack in the Ahoro-Esiele area of Oriire LGA, where armed gunmen stormed multiple schools, killing at least one teacher and abducting several students and staff.

    Reports indicate that about 39 students and seven teachers were taken during the attack, with victims including very young children.

    Since the incident, no official rescue has been confirmed despite ongoing joint operations involving the military, police, Amotekun, and local vigilantes.

    Government Response and Ongoing Operations

    Governor Seyi Makinde has repeatedly assured residents that security agencies are conducting round-the-clock operations to secure the victims’ release using both kinetic and non-kinetic approaches.

    A recent video from one of the abducted teachers, Mrs Rachael Alamu, had earlier gone viral, in which she pleaded for negotiation and urgent intervention from authorities.

    Authorities continue to urge calm while assuring that intelligence-led operations are ongoing to rescue the victims safely.

    The protest underscores growing public anxiety over school safety in Oyo State and renewed calls for stronger security measures around educational institutions.

  • Iyabo Ojo Questions Security Agencies After Oyo Kidnap Cases

    Nollywood actress Iyabo Ojo has reacted to the growing insecurity in Nigeria following recent kidnapping incidents in Oyo State, questioning the effectiveness of security agencies and the country’s military structure.

    In a viral video circulating online, the actress expressed frustration over the continuous attacks by bandits and kidnappers across different parts of the country despite the presence of security operatives.

    Actress Speaks On Fear And Silence

    Speaking in the video, Iyabo Ojo said Nigerians have become too afraid to speak up about the worsening security situation in the country.

    “This is not about APC is not doing well, Tinubu is not doing well. We ourselves are not ready because we are too afraid. We are too afraid to speak and to stand by the truth,” she said.

    The actress stressed that insecurity should not be reduced to political arguments alone, insisting that citizens also have a responsibility to demand accountability and speak against violence.

    Questions Over Bandit Attacks

    Iyabo Ojo also questioned how armed bandits continue to invade communities, abduct residents and carry out attacks despite the presence of military personnel across the country.

    She called on security agencies and the government to explain the challenges they are facing in tackling insecurity.

    “What is going on? Are these people more than you military men who are supposed to be in charge of protecting the lives and property of your citizens?” she queried.

    The actress added that she finds it difficult to believe that criminal groups are stronger than Nigeria’s security forces.

    Video Sparks Online Reactions

    Her comments have generated mixed reactions on social media, with many Nigerians agreeing with her concerns over the increasing cases of kidnappings and violent attacks nationwide.

    Others argued that both citizens and the government must work together to address the country’s worsening security crisis.

    The video comes amid growing outrage over recent abductions involving schoolchildren and residents in parts of Oyo State and other regions across Nigeria.

    Discussions around insecurity, kidnappings and the role of security agencies continue to dominate latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today as concerns rise over public safety across the country.

     

  • Peter Obi Laments Fresh School Abductions, Says Nigeria Has “Little But Shame” on Children’s Day

    Former Anambra State Governor and former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has expressed deep concern over the continued abduction of schoolchildren across Nigeria, describing the situation as a painful stain on the country’s image.

    In a statement shared on his social media page to mark the 2026 Children’s Day celebration, Obi said it was heartbreaking that while many nations were celebrating and protecting their children, several Nigerian children remained in captivity.

    “A Nation That Cannot Protect Its Children”

    According to Obi, the continued circulation of photos and videos of abducted children online reflects the country’s failure to guarantee safety for its youngest citizens.

    “A nation that cannot protect its children from criminals has little but shame to present to the global community,” he wrote.

    The former governor lamented that some children have remained missing for weeks, months and even years, while families continue to live in fear and uncertainty.

    He stressed that the situation has turned what should have been a joyful Children’s Day celebration into a period of mourning and anxiety for many Nigerian families.

    Fresh Outrage Over Oyo School Attack

    Obi’s comments come amid outrage over the recent attack on schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, where gunmen reportedly abducted dozens of pupils and teachers.

    Reports indicate that the attackers invaded schools in the area and forcefully took away students, while one teacher was reportedly killed during the incident.

    The attack triggered widespread reactions across the country, with many Nigerians demanding stronger action from security agencies and the Federal Government.

    Governor Seyi Makinde had earlier confirmed intensified rescue efforts, while President Bola Ahmed Tinubu also condemned the attack and ordered security agencies to act swiftly.

    Growing Concern Over Insecurity

    School abductions have remained a major security concern in Nigeria over the past decade, particularly in northern and some southwestern communities.

    Several schools across affected regions have reportedly tightened security measures or suspended activities due to fears of further attacks.

    Obi said the continued attacks on children and educational institutions raise serious concerns about the country’s future and the safety of vulnerable communities.

    Mixed Reactions Trail Obi’s Statement

    While many Nigerians praised Obi for speaking out and drawing attention to the plight of abducted children, others argued that insecurity has remained a long-standing national challenge beyond any single administration.

    On social media, many users described the situation as unacceptable, insisting that children should never become targets of violence or criminal activities.

    The latest incident has again renewed calls for improved security, intelligence gathering, and better protection for schools across the country.

  • “Terrorists Only Want To Speak With Makinde” — Fresh Fear As Abducted Oyo Schoolchildren Spend Eight Days In Captivity

    Fresh details have emerged over the abduction of pupils, teachers and residents in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, as terrorists reportedly opened communication channels with the state government.

    According to reports, the kidnappers allegedly refused to negotiate with families of the victims and insisted they only wanted to speak directly with Governor Seyi Makinde.

    “They Only Want To Talk To The Governor”

    Sources familiar with the development told Saturday PUNCH that all attempts by relatives to contact the abductors were rejected.

    “They said they only want to talk to the governor and nobody else. That was the condition they gave for negotiation,” a source disclosed.

    Another source described the communication as a slight relief despite growing fears over the safety of the captives.

    “It is not that security agencies don’t know what to do. But the risks are too high. The relief is that at least now, they are talking,” the source added.

    However, officials have remained silent on the exact demands allegedly made by the abductors.

    Children Still Missing After Eight Days

    The victims, including toddlers reportedly aged between two and three years old, have now spent eight days in captivity after terrorists attacked schools in Esinele, Yamota and Alawusa communities.

    Reports claimed the captives were being moved through forests and difficult terrains across different locations to evade security operatives.

    Community leaders and parents have continued to express fear over the harsh conditions the abducted children may be facing inside the forests.

    “We are worried about their safety. We don’t know how they are faring. Children of two-year-old are among the abductees,” a community leader said.

    Schools Deserted Amid Growing Panic

    The attack has also triggered panic across Ogbomoso and surrounding communities, with many schools reportedly deserted by pupils and teachers.

    A teacher in the area said attendance in both public and private schools had dropped drastically since the incident.

    “All the schools in Ogbomoso have been empty since Monday. Parents are afraid,” the teacher explained.

    The source also recounted how panic spread further after students reportedly mistook hunters for terrorists near Areago Grammar School, leading to chaos in the area.

    “One pupil died after being knocked down by a vehicle while people were running. His mother also reportedly died after hearing the news,” the teacher added.

    Fear Continues Across Communities

    Residents in Ikose, Ikoyi, Tewure and nearby communities reportedly remain gripped by fear as many parents continue to keep their children away from school.

    Meanwhile, teachers in several affected schools reportedly stayed away from work on Friday in honour of Joel Adesiyan, a former Assistant Headmaster allegedly killed during the attacks.

    The latest development has continued to raise concerns over worsening insecurity in parts of Oyo State and the growing threat of school attacks in Nigeria.

  • “I Want Him to Have a Burial Site” — Widow of Beheaded Oyo Teacher Begs Government to Recover Husband’s Body

    Mrs. Mary Oyedokun, widow of the late teacher reportedly beheaded by bandits after the recent school attack in Oyo State, has emotionally appealed to the government and security agencies to help recover her husband’s remains.

    In a viral video circulating online on Friday, the grieving widow pleaded with authorities to retrieve the body of her husband so he could be given a proper burial.

    “I Want Him To Have A Burial Site”

    Speaking in Yoruba, Mrs. Oyedokun broke down in tears as she appealed to the Federal Government to intervene.

    “I am begging the government to please recover the body of my husband. I want him to have a burial site for future reference,” she said emotionally.

    Her plea has since triggered fresh reactions online, with many Nigerians expressing sympathy and anger over the worsening insecurity in parts of the country.

    Teacher Killed After School Attack

    The deceased, Michael Oyedokun, was a Mathematics teacher at Community High School, Ahoro-Esiele, in Oyo State.

    He was among those abducted after armed terrorists invaded schools in Oriire Local Government Area during coordinated attacks on Community High School, L.A. Primary School, Esiele, and Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota.

    Reports indicated that between 46 and 48 persons, including pupils, students and teachers, were abducted during the attacks.

    A disturbing video later surfaced online allegedly showing the gruesome killing of the teacher by his abductors, sparking outrage and condemnation across the country.

    Pressure Mounts On Authorities

    The incident has continued to attract reactions from Nigerians, celebrities and civil society groups demanding stronger security measures and accountability from authorities.

    Governor Seyi Makinde had earlier assured residents that both kinetic and non-kinetic approaches were being deployed to secure the release of victims still in captivity.

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu also condemned the killing, describing the act as barbaric while promising intensified rescue efforts.

  • Oyo Police Break Silence on ‘Rescue’ Claims as Abducted Pupils, Teachers Remain in Captivity

    The Oyo State Police Command has denied reports claiming that pupils, students and teachers abducted during last Friday’s attack on three schools in Oriire Local Government Area of the state have regained freedom.

    The command clarified that the victims are still in captivity, adding that security agencies are intensifying efforts to rescue them and arrest those responsible for the attack.

    Police dismiss viral rescue reports

    The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, made the clarification in a statement issued on Friday in Ibadan.

    According to the police, information circulating online about the release of the abducted victims is false and should be ignored by the public.

    “The Oyo State Police Command wishes to inform the general public that the abducted students, pupils, and teachers in Orire Local Government Area are yet to be released, as intensive efforts by security agencies continue to ensure their safe rescue and the arrest of those responsible for the criminal act,” the statement read.

    “The Command hereby debunks the rumour currently circulating that the victims have been rescued.”

    Residents urged to remain calm

    The police appealed to residents to stay calm and support ongoing security operations in the affected communities.

    The command also warned Nigerians against spreading unverified information, stressing that fake reports could create panic and distract security agencies from ongoing rescue efforts.

    “Members of the public are urged to remain calm, support the ongoing efforts of the joint security team, and verify every piece of information before sharing it.

    “The spread of fake news and misinformation only creates unnecessary panic, heightens tension, and diverts limited security resources that are critically needed for the ongoing operations,” the statement added.

    Fear grows after school attack

    The attack in Oriire Local Government Area has continued to trigger fear and outrage across the country after gunmen stormed schools and abducted pupils, teachers and residents.

    One of the abducted teachers, Michael Oyedokun, was later killed, further deepening concerns over worsening insecurity in parts of Oyo State.

    The police assured residents that verified updates would be communicated as investigations and rescue operations continue.