Abducted Oyo Principal Alleges Misinformation Over Kidnappers’ Demands
Residents of Ogbomoso, Oyo State, staged another round of protests on Monday, demanding the release of more than 40 pupils and teachers abducted from schools in Oriire Local Government Area nearly a month ago. The demonstrators blocked major roads and highways across parts of the city, expressing frustration over the continued captivity of the victims who were kidnapped on May 15, 2026. The renewed protest came as a video surfaced online showing the abducted Principal of Community High School, Ahoro-Esinele, Mrs. Rachael Alamu, appealing to Nigerians to disregard reports that the kidnappers demanded the implementation of Sharia law or financial ransom as conditions for their release. Speaking from captivity in the viral video, Alamu said claims circulating in some media reports did not reflect the demands made by the abductors. She maintained that the captives had not been compelled to practise any religion and insisted that the kidnappers were not requesting the introduction of Sharia law. According to her, the abductors were primarily interested in the release of certain individuals and urged authorities to engage them through dialogue rather than allowing misinformation to complicate efforts aimed at securing the victims’ freedom. Alamu appealed to Nigerians to help amplify her message, warning against what she described as attempts to politicise the situation.
Meanwhile, protesters questioned why the victims had remained in captivity for more than three weeks despite ongoing public appeals and security operations. One of the demonstrators, Kehinde Dahunsi, expressed concern over the pace of rescue efforts, arguing that authorities should deploy every available strategy to secure the release of the kidnapped pupils and teachers. The abduction triggered widespread concern across Oyo State, with the Nigeria Union of Teachers previously directing teachers to embark on industrial action until the victims are rescued. Security agencies have continued search-and-rescue operations, while the Seyi Makinde administration has repeatedly assured residents that efforts are ongoing to secure the safe return of all those held captive.
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