Oyo School Kidnappers Begin Talks with Government, Set Strict Conditions

Suspected terrorists who abducted students and teachers from three schools in Oriire LGA of Oyo State have reportedly initiated communication with the state government.

Sources reveal the kidnappers refused to engage directly with families and insisted negotiations be conducted only with the governor.

It is unclear whether Governor Seyi Makinde is handling the talks personally or through a representative, but officials say opening a communication channel is a relief.

The kidnappers’ demands remain confidential to avoid endangering the victims.

Teachers and pupils, including toddlers aged two and three, were abducted last Friday and have spent eight days in captivity.

Parents and community leaders are increasingly concerned for the children’s safety, particularly due to the onset of the rainy season and challenging forest terrain.

Reports indicate the captives are being moved across states and through dense forests to evade security forces.

Community leaders say they remain unaware of the abductees’ exact location.

The abduction has caused widespread school absenteeism in Ogbomoso and surrounding communities, as parents keep children home for safety.

Teachers confirm that attendance has drastically dropped in both public and private schools, despite government reassurances.

Panic escalated after students spotted strangers in nearby bushes, leading to injuries and the death of a pupil whose mother also died from shock.

Teachers in affected areas returned home early and refrained from attending school to honor Joel Adesiyan, a former Assistant Headmaster killed by the abductors.

Other teachers reported that many parents continued to keep children at home, and even those who attended were withdrawn before closing time.

The killings of Adesiyan and Michael Oyedokun, who was later beheaded, have intensified fear among educators and parents.

Rumours and social media posts have worsened anxiety, especially for schools near forests or remote areas.

Oyo State Commissioner for Information, Dotun Oyelade, stated that misinformation online has aggravated fear despite government efforts to reassure the public.

Adesiyan was buried in Ogbomoso amid tears, with government officials, union representatives, and family members calling for justice.

Oyedokun’s family said his death was devastating, noting he had no children after more than ten years of marriage, and appealed to Nigerians to stop sharing graphic videos.

The tragedy has sparked renewed discussion about teacher and student safety in rural Nigeria, highlighting the need for stronger security measures and the rescue of the abducted victims.

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