Fear Rises In Oyo State as Kidnappers Demand Talks With Governor Seyi Makinde

An atmosphere of fear, uncertainty, and mourning has continued to spread across parts of Cfollowing the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area, as suspected terrorists reportedly open communication channels with the state government

According to sources familiar with the development, the kidnappers have refused to negotiate with the families of the victims, insisting instead on speaking directly with Governor Seyi Makinde or his representatives.

One source disclosed that the abductors made it clear that discussions would only happen through the state government, though details of their demands remain undisclosed to avoid jeopardizing the safety of the victims.

Despite the tension, some officials reportedly see the renewed communication as a positive sign amid growing concerns about the wellbeing of the abducted pupils and teachers.

 Eight Days in Captivity Deepen Anxiety

The victims, including toddlers as young as two and three years old, were abducted from schools in Esinele, Yamota, and Alawusa communities over a week ago. Families and community leaders say fears are intensifying as the rainy season worsens conditions in forest areas where the victims are believed to be held. Reports suggest the captives are being moved through thick forests and across state boundaries to avoid security operatives.

Residents say uncertainty surrounding the victims’ condition has left many parents emotionally devastated.

“We are worried about their safety. We don’t know how they are surviving in the forest,” a community leader reportedly said.

The incident has triggered widespread panic across Ogbomoso and surrounding communities, with many parents withdrawing their children from schools over fears of further attacks.

Teachers in communities including Ikose, Ikoyi, Tewure, and Dananu revealed that attendance in both public and private schools has dropped sharply since the abductions. One teacher recounted how panic erupted after students at a secondary school reportedly mistook local hunters for terrorists, leading to chaos that resulted in the tragic death of a pupil during the stampede. The child’s mother was also said to have died from shock after hearing the news. Educators say classrooms that were once full now sit nearly empty, while some teachers have stopped reporting to remote schools because of security fears. Parents have also begun escorting children to school and returning immediately after closing hours due to anxiety over possible attacks.

The emotional toll on teachers has worsened following the deaths of two educators during the crisis. One of them, Joel Adesiyan, was killed during the initial attack and buried in Ogbomoso amid tears from family members, colleagues, and residents. During the funeral service at Ayegun Baptist Church, government officials and education stakeholders described him as a dedicated teacher whose death represented a painful loss to the education sector. Another abducted teacher, Michael Oyedokun, was reportedly beheaded while in captivity, sparking outrage nationwide.

Family members described him as a humble teacher who served for more than two decades in public schools. They revealed that he died childless despite being married for over 10 years, describing the tragedy as deeply heartbreaking for the family.

The family also appealed to Nigerians to stop sharing disturbing videos and graphic images linked to his death, saying the circulation of such content continues to worsen their grief.

Government Blames Fake News for Rising Panic

The Oyo State Government acknowledged the growing fear among parents and teachers but argued that misinformation on social media has amplified public panic. The state Commissioner for Information, Dotun Oyelade, accused some bloggers of circulating misleading videos and unverified reports capable of escalating tension in affected communities.

He assured residents that the government was working to improve security efforts and secure the safe release of those still in captivity.

However, many residents and education workers insist that stronger visible security measures around schools, especially in remote communities near forest corridors, are urgently needed.

The tragic incident has once again reignited national concerns over insecurity in rural communities and the vulnerability of schools across Nigeria.

Teachers, parents, and community leaders are now calling for increased security presence, improved intelligence gathering, and stronger protection for schools located in isolated areas frequently targeted by criminal groups. As negotiations reportedly continue behind closed doors, families of the abducted victims remain hopeful for safe returns while communities across Oyo State continue to grapple with fear, grief, and uncertainty.