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The Oyo State Government has denied reports claiming it has paid a ransom to secure the release of pupils and teachers abducted by bandits in Oriire Local Government Area.
In a statement signed by the Commissioner for Information, Dotun Oyelade, on Friday, the government described the claim as “far from the truth” and a deliberate attempt by “irresponsible bloggers” to create confusion and misinform the public. It described the allegation as false and misleading.
“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,” Oyelade said.
He urged members of the public to disregard the reports and rely only on information released through official government channels.
The commissioner said that the Oyo State Government is working closely with security agencies to ensure the safe release of the abductees and bring this sad event to a close.
On May 15, some bandits abducted school children and teachers from three schools in Yawota and Ahoro-Esienle in Oriire Local Government Area, Oyo State, during a coordinated operation which claimed a teacher.
The abducted victims are still being held by their captors, while the government, along with security agencies, continue efforts to secure their safe release.
