Suspected gunmen who abducted 39 students and seven teachers in Ahoro Esinele community, Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, have reportedly opened communication with authorities and demanded ransom for the release of the victims.
The incident, which has heightened tension across the state, reportedly claimed the life of a teacher, Michael Oyedokun, who was said to have been beheaded by the abductors. Families of the victims are now mounting pressure on both the state and federal governments to secure the victims’ release.
Sources disclosed that indirect negotiations are ongoing, although the exact amount demanded by the kidnappers has not been made public. The Oyo State Government has reportedly assured families that it will deploy all necessary resources to ensure the safe return of the victims.
Security operations have also intensified, with police helicopters placed on standby and military jets conducting daily surveillance flights over forests believed to be linked to the kidnappers. Coordinated rescue efforts are reportedly being carried out by the police, military, Department of State Services and the state government.
Meanwhile, the security crisis has triggered fresh calls for reforms, as leaders of a faction of the Peoples Democratic Party demanded a comprehensive overhaul of Nigeria’s security architecture. Yoruba Nation activist Sunday Adeyemo also said he was awaiting federal approval to launch the Iru Ekun Security Network to combat criminal activities in the South-West.