The Oyo State Government has dismissed reports alleging that it paid ransom to secure the release of pupils and teachers abducted by bandits 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 the reports were unfounded and capable of causing unnecessary confusion among the public.
Oyelade blamed what he described as irresponsible bloggers for circulating the allegation, insisting that neither the Oyo State Government nor the Federal Government had paid ransom to the kidnappers.
“Although both the Oyo State and Federal Governments 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,” the commissioner stated.
He urged residents to disregard the reports and rely only on verified information released through official government channels.
According to the commissioner, the state government remains in close collaboration with security agencies to ensure the safe rescue of the abducted pupils and teachers while efforts continue to bring the incident to a successful conclusion.
The government’s clarification follows widespread reports alleging that ransom had been paid to secure the victims’ freedom.
The pupils and teachers were abducted on May 15, 2026, when armed bandits attacked three schools in the Yawota and Ahoro-Esienle communities of Oriire Local Government Area.
The coordinated attack also claimed the life of a teacher.
The victims remain in captivity as security agencies, in collaboration with the Oyo State and Federal Governments, continue rescue operations aimed at securing their safe release.
