A wave of fear has gripped parts of Oyo State after suspected terrorists abducted schoolchildren and teachers from three schools in Esinele, Yamota, and Alawusa communities in Oriire Local Government Area, with reports indicating that the attackers have now opened communication with the state government.
According to security and community sources, the abductors have insisted on speaking directly with the state governor, refusing any engagement with victims’ families or intermediaries. This condition has reportedly shaped the current negotiation process, although details of the discussions remain undisclosed.
Officials have not confirmed who is handling the talks on behalf of the government, and the Special Adviser on Security to Governor Seyi Makinde declined to comment on the situation.
Sources described the opening of communication channels as a slight relief, suggesting that dialogue could improve chances of securing the release of the abducted pupils and teachers, even as authorities maintain strict secrecy over the demands to protect the victims.
The abducted individuals, including very young children aged between two and three years, have now spent over a week in captivity, with concerns growing over their safety due to difficult terrain and movement through forested areas.
Residents and community leaders say the victims are being moved across dense forests and possibly between states, making rescue efforts more complicated and heightening fears among families already devastated by the incident.
The abductions have triggered widespread panic across affected communities, leading to a sharp decline in school attendance in Ogbomoso and surrounding areas, as parents withdraw their children from both public and private schools.
Teachers report that many classrooms are now largely empty, with several schools operating below capacity due to fears of further attacks. In some cases, schools have closed early or suspended activities entirely.
The crisis has also had tragic consequences, including fatalities linked to panic situations and the killing of school staff during the attack, which has further deepened anxiety among educators.
Teachers and parents have called for stronger security presence around schools, especially those located in rural and forest-adjacent areas, warning that fear and misinformation are worsening the situation.
Oyo State authorities have attributed some of the panic to misinformation circulating on social media, urging residents to rely on official updates while assuring that efforts are ongoing to secure the release of the victims.
Despite government assurances, fear remains high as families continue to await news of the abducted children and teachers.
