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.