Police Debunk Release of Abducted Oyo School Children, Teachers

Oyo Police dismiss viral claims that abducted schoolchildren and teachers have been released, confirming rescue operations are ongoing. Authorities warn against misinformation, urging public to rely on official security updates only.

The Oyo State Police Command has dismissed as false and misleading viral reports circulating on social media claiming that abducted pupils and teachers from Ahoro Esiele and Yawota communities in Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State have been released.

In a statement issued on Thursday by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, the police described the reports as “categorically false, misleading, and entirely unsubstantiated,” stressing that no such development has taken place.

“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 statement read.

The Command reassured families of the abducted victims that coordinated rescue operations are still ongoing, with security operatives actively working to ensure their safe return.

It stated that personnel are deploying all available human and operational resources to locate and rescue the pupils and teachers, as well as to apprehend those responsible for the abduction.

Authorities also cautioned against the spread of unverified information, warning that such reports could cause unnecessary panic, heighten public anxiety, and potentially disrupt ongoing security operations.

Residents were urged to rely strictly on official updates from the Nigeria Police Force and other authorised government agencies, while remaining calm and supportive of rescue efforts.

The Command reaffirmed its commitment to securing the safe return of the victims and promised to provide timely and verified updates as operations continue.