Police, Oriire LG Dismiss Igboho’s Claims of Rescuing Abducted Oyo Pupils

 

By Abdulahi Musa 

The Oyo State Police Command and the Oriire Local Government Area have dismissed viral claims by Yoruba Nation agitator, Sunday Igboho, that he played a role in rescuing pupils and teachers abducted from schools in Oriire LGA.

The controversy followed the circulation of videos and social media posts suggesting that Igboho and his supporters had secured the release of some of the victims kidnapped during the attack on schools in Ahoro-Esiele and Yawota communities in May.

Reacting to the claims, the Police Command described the reports as false, misleading and capable of undermining ongoing security operations. The command maintained that security agencies remained fully engaged in efforts to rescue all victims and apprehend those responsible for the abductions.

Police spokesperson, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, urged members of the public to disregard unverified information and rely only on official updates from security agencies. According to him, spreading unconfirmed reports could create unnecessary panic and interfere with rescue operations.

The Chairman of Oriire Local Government, Hon. Johnson Aderemi, also distanced the council from the claims, insisting that no official communication or evidence had been presented to support the narrative that Igboho facilitated the victims' rescue.

The council boss stressed that security agencies, local authorities and community leaders had continued to work together to secure the safe release of the abducted pupils and teachers. He urged residents to avoid politicising the sensitive security issue and instead support efforts aimed at ensuring the victims regain their freedom.

The kidnapping of pupils, students and teachers from three schools in Oriire Local Government Area sparked nationwide outrage and renewed concerns over insecurity in the South-West. Security agencies have since intensified operations in the area, while investigations into the incident continue. The Defence Headquarters had earlier linked the attack to terrorists displaced from other parts of the country following sustained military offensives.

Meanwhile, Igboho had earlier claimed that he offered to assist in rescue efforts through his security network but alleged that authorities did not approve his involvement. However, the police and local government authorities have maintained that the viral rescue claims remain unsubstantiated.