Police debunk release of abducted Oyo school children, teachers

The Oyo State Police Command, on Thursday, debunked a viral message circulating across various social media platforms alleging that the pupils and teachers abducted from Ahoro-Esiele and Yawota Communities in Orire Local Government Area of the state have been released by their abductors.

Police, in a statement released by its spokesperson, Olayinka Ayanlade, in Ibadan, the state capital, described the claim as false, misleading, and entirely unsubstantiated.

It therefore urged Oyo residents to rely solely on information released through the official channels of the Nigeria Police Force and other authorised government agencies.

The PUNCH reports that over 40 school children alongside their teachers were abducted during a coordinated attack at Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota; Community High School, Ahoro-Esienle; and L.A. Primary School in Oriire Local Government Area of the state, on Friday, May 15, 2026.

The statement said, “Oyo Police Command wishes to categorically debunk the viral messages currently circulating across various social media platforms alleging that the pupils and teachers abducted from Ahoro Esiele and Yawota Communities in Orire Local Government Area of the state have been released by their abductors.

“The Command states unequivocally that the claim is false, misleading, and entirely unsubstantiated. As of the time of this release, there has been no such development, and members of the public are advised to disregard the report in its entirety.

“The Command wishes to reassure the good people of Oyo and the families of the victims that intensive and coordinated rescue operations remain ongoing. Security operatives are working tirelessly, deploying all available human and operational resources to ensure the safe rescue of the abducted pupils and teachers, their unharmed reunification with their families, and the apprehension and prosecution of all those responsible for the heinous act.

“While appreciating the concern and interest of members of the public regarding the incident, the Command strongly cautions individuals and groups against the dissemination of false information, unverified reports, and sensational narratives capable of causing unnecessary panic, heightening public anxiety, undermining ongoing security operations, and threatening public peace and order.

“The Command, therefore, urges residents to rely solely on information released through official channels of the Nigeria Police Force and other authorised government agencies. Citizens are encouraged to remain calm, vigilant, and supportive of ongoing security efforts while refraining from sharing unverified information on social media and other communication platforms.”

The statement assured that the Command remained committed to ensuring the safe return of the victims and will also continue to provide timely and accurate updates as developments unfold.