The Oyo State Government has strongly denied allegations that it paid ransom to secure the release of pupils and teachers abducted by suspected bandits in Oriire Local Government Area of the state, describing the claims as false, misleading, and capable of undermining ongoing security operations.
The controversy followed a viral video by social media activist Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), in which he alleged that the state government had paid ransom to the kidnappers but that the victims remained in captivity despite the payment. The claims generated widespread reactions on social media, prompting an official response from the state government.
In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, the Oyo State Government categorically dismissed the allegation, insisting that no ransom had been paid—either directly or indirectly—to the abductors.
According to the commissioner, both the Oyo State Government and the Federal Government have continued to work closely with security agencies through coordinated intelligence and rescue operations aimed at ensuring the safe release of the abducted schoolchildren and their teachers.
"The reports claiming that the government paid ransom are far from the truth and should be disregarded. They are the handiwork of irresponsible individuals seeking to mislead the public and create unnecessary panic," the statement said.
The government urged residents to rely only on information released through official government channels, warning that the spread of unverified reports could jeopardize ongoing security efforts and create confusion among the public.
The abduction occurred on May 15, 2026, when armed assailants attacked schools in the Yawota and Ahoro-Esiele communities of Oriire Local Government Area. During the attack, a teacher and a motorcycle rider were reportedly killed, while 39 pupils and seven teachers were taken away by the gunmen.
Since the incident, the state government has repeatedly assured parents, guardians, and residents that every available resource is being deployed in collaboration with security agencies to facilitate the safe rescue of the victims and bring those responsible to justice.
The government also reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property across Oyo State, stressing that the security and welfare of schoolchildren remain a top priority. It noted that efforts to strengthen security around schools and vulnerable communities are ongoing as part of broader measures to combat kidnapping and other criminal activities.
VeryDarkMan had earlier been among civil society voices calling for greater urgency in securing the release of the abducted children. In June, he participated in a peaceful protest demanding stronger government action over the prolonged captivity of the victims. However, state officials maintained that his latest claims regarding ransom payments were unfounded and unsupported by evidence.
The Oyo State Government appealed to residents to remain calm, vigilant, and cooperative with law enforcement agencies by providing credible information that could assist security operations. It further urged citizens to refrain from circulating rumours or unverified reports, particularly on social media, emphasizing that misinformation could hamper ongoing rescue efforts.
As anxiety continues over the fate of the abducted pupils and teachers, the government reiterated its resolve to work with all relevant security agencies until the victims are safely reunited with their families.
The incident has once again drawn national attention to the growing challenge of school-related kidnappings in parts of Nigeria, reinforcing calls for enhanced security around educational institutions and stronger measures to prevent future attacks.
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