The Oyo State Police Command has dismissed widespread rumours claiming that students, pupils and teachers abducted during last week’s coordinated terrorist attacks on schools in Oriire Local Government Area have regained freedom.
The command clarified on Friday that all victims kidnapped during the attacks remain in captivity, contrary to viral social media reports suggesting they had been rescued.
In a statement issued in Ibadan, the Police Public Relations Officer, Ayanlade Olayinka, said security agencies were intensifying efforts to secure the safe release of the victims and apprehend those responsible for the attacks.
“The Oyo State Police Command wishes to inform the general public that the abducted students, pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area are yet to be released, as intensive efforts by security agencies continue to ensure their safe rescue and the arrest of those responsible for the criminal act,” the statement read.
The police warned residents against spreading unverified information capable of causing panic and distracting security personnel engaged in rescue operations.
“The Command hereby debunks the rumour currently circulating that the victims have been rescued,” the statement added.
Police authorities further urged members of the public to remain calm, cooperate with security operatives and verify information before circulating it online.
According to the command, the spread of fake news and misinformation could heighten tension and divert limited security resources needed for ongoing operations.
“The spread of fake news and misinformation only creates unnecessary panic, heightens tension, and diverts limited security resources that are critically needed for the ongoing operations,” the police stated.
The command assured residents that verified updates would be communicated as developments unfold and advised members of the public to contact official police channels for authentic information.
The clarification comes amid growing anxiety across Ogbomoso and neighbouring communities following the abduction of dozens of students and teachers during coordinated attacks on schools in Yawota and Esiele communities last Friday.
The attacks targeted Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, Community Grammar School and L.A. Primary School, Esiele, leaving one teacher dead and several others kidnapped.
Governor Seyi Makinde had earlier confirmed that seven students were abducted from Community Secondary School, while 18 pupils and seven teachers were kidnapped from First Baptist Primary and Nursery School.
One of the teachers, Adesiyan Adegboye, was killed during the attack and buried on Friday in Ogbomoso amid emotional scenes and renewed calls for stronger security around rural schools.
Meanwhile, the Security Adviser to the Governor, Abayomi Fagbenro, also confirmed that no rescue had been recorded as of Thursday morning, despite reports circulating online.
