By Duchess Ifeoluwa 

The Oyo State Government has denied reports alleging that ransom was paid to secure the release of pupils and teachers abducted by bandits from schools in Oriire Local Government Area of the state.

The government described the claim as false, misleading and a deliberate attempt to misinform the public.

The Commissioner for Information and Civic Orientation, Mr. Dotun Oyelade, stated this in a statement issued on Friday in Ibadan.

According to him, neither the Oyo State Government nor the Federal Government has paid any ransom, directly or indirectly, to secure the release of the abductees.

He said the two tiers of government have continued to work closely with security agencies to ensure the safe rescue of the victims.

“The allegation is far from the truth. It is a deliberate attempt by bloggers to create confusion and mislead members of the public,” Oyelade said.

He urged residents to disregard the reports and rely only on information released through official government channels.

The commissioner reiterated the government’s commitment to securing the safe release of the abducted pupils and teachers, expressing confidence that ongoing security operations would bring the unfortunate incident to a successful conclusion.

Bandits had, on May 15, attacked Baptist Nursery/Primary School, Yawota, Local Authority Primary School, Esiele, and Community Grammar School, Esiele, all in Oriire Local Government Area, abducting some pupils and teachers before marching them into a nearby forest.

The incident sparked widespread concern and renewed calls for improved security around schools and rural communities in the state.