Victims Still In Captivity As Police Dismiss False Rescue Reports
Viral Report Sparks Public Confusion
FRESH confusion emerged in Oyo State after reports circulated online claiming that pupils and teachers abducted from schools in Oriire Local Government Area had been successfully rescued.
The reports, which gained traction across social media platforms, suggested that security agencies had secured the release of all the victims. However, the Oyo State Police Command has categorically denied the claims, stating that the information is inaccurate.
Police Clarify Situation
Responding to the reports, police authorities said there had been no successful rescue operation as claimed.
The command emphasized that the victims remain in captivity while security agencies continue coordinated efforts aimed at securing their release. Officials described the circulating reports as false and warned that misinformation could hamper ongoing operations.
The police further appealed to residents to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified information capable of causing panic or undermining public confidence.
National Attention on the Abduction
The kidnapping has attracted significant national attention since armed men attacked schools in the Oriire axis and abducted dozens of pupils and teachers.
The incident has triggered public outrage, with lawmakers, civil society groups, teachers’ unions and community leaders calling for stronger measures to tackle insecurity and protect schools from criminal attacks.
The House of Representatives recently urged security agencies to intensify rescue efforts and renewed calls for broader reforms aimed at addressing growing security challenges across the country.
Families Await Positive News
As rescue operations continue, families of the victims remain hopeful for their safe return.
The police reassured the public that security agencies are working relentlessly to rescue the abducted pupils and teachers unharmed while pursuing those responsible for the crime. Authorities also pledged to provide verified updates as developments occur.
For now, officials insist that reports of a successful rescue are premature, urging Nigerians to await information from authorized sources while efforts to free the victims continue.
