The Oyo State Government has dismissed claims that it paid ransom to secure the release of schoolchildren and teachers abducted by gunmen in Oriire Local Government Area, describing the allegation as false.
The government was reacting to claims made by social media personality Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), who alleged in a viral video that ransom had been paid but the victims were yet to regain their freedom.
Government rejects ransom claims
In a statement, the state government insisted that no ransom was paid for the abducted pupils and teachers.
Officials maintained that security agencies are continuing efforts to rescue the victims, urging residents to disregard unverified reports capable of causing unnecessary panic.
The government also reaffirmed its commitment to securing the safe return of everyone still in captivity.
School abduction triggered public outrage
The victims were abducted on May 15, 2026, after heavily armed gunmen attacked schools in the Ahoro-Esinle and Yawota communities of Oriire Local Government Area.
The affected schools included Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, Community Grammar School, Esiele, and L.A. Primary School, Ahoro-Esinle.
The attack reportedly claimed the life of one teacher during the invasion, while another teacher was later reported to have died in captivity.
Protests followed incident
The abduction sparked protests across the state, including a demonstration led by VeryDarkMan at the residence of Governor Seyi Makinde, where protesters demanded the immediate rescue of the victims and improved security for schools.
The incident also disrupted academic activities, leading to school closures and an indefinite strike by teachers in some affected communities.
Security operations continue
Authorities said security operations have been intensified, with security personnel working to locate the abductors and rescue those still being held.
The incident has once again drawn attention to the recurring challenge of school abductions in Nigeria, with many calling for stronger measures to protect schools and rural communities from criminal attacks.