Fresh details have emerged regarding the abduction of teachers and pupils in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, as the kidnappers are reportedly demanding sophisticated weapons, a huge ransom, and the concession of a portion of land within the council area as conditions for releasing their captives.
According to information gathered by Oduduwa News, the terrorists responsible for the abduction have established contact with the Oyo State Government. However, efforts to secure the release of the victims are said to be difficult due to what officials described as outrageous and unacceptable demands by the abductors.
The shocking revelation was made by the Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, during plenary proceedings at the Assembly on Wednesday. The Speaker disclosed that negotiating with the kidnappers would embolden them because their conditions extend beyond monetary demands.
Ogundoyin explained that the abductors are requesting a large cache of sophisticated weapons, a substantial amount of money, and the concession of part of Oyo State territorial land, demands which the government is unwilling and unable to meet.
He assured residents that the state government, in collaboration with security agencies, is intensifying efforts to secure the safe rescue of the abducted teachers and pupils without compromising the security and territorial integrity of the state.
The Speaker urged residents to remain calm and continue to support security agencies with credible information that could aid ongoing rescue operations. He reaffirmed the commitment of Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration to ensuring the safe return of all victims and tackling the growing security challenges confronting parts of the state.
The abduction has continued to generate widespread concern among residents, parents, and stakeholders, with many calling for urgent and decisive action to secure the release of the victims and strengthen security across vulnerable communities in Oyo State.