The Oyo State Government under the leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde has refuted claims contained in a viral video suggesting that the pupils, students, and teachers recently kidnapped in the state have regained their freedom.
The abduction incident, which attracted widespread attention, occurred after armed bandits invaded schools in the Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State and took several victims away.
Addressing the growing circulation of the video online, the Commissioner for Information and Civic Orientation, Prince Dotun Oyelade, stated that the content being shared across social media platforms does not reflect the true situation and has the potential to misinform the public.
According to a report by the Nigerian Tribune, Oyelade clarified that the abducted individuals remain in captivity despite the assertions made in the viral footage.
He further noted that the dissemination of the false report could trigger avoidable uncertainty among members of the public, particularly relatives and loved ones of those affected by the kidnapping.
“The viral video about the release of those abducted at Oriire in Oyo state is unfortunately untrue. “The state government continues its discreet interventions, which we are very hopeful will yield the desired result soon. We thank all for their patience.”
The commissioner cautioned against the circulation of unverified information, stressing that such reports could worsen public concern and deepen the emotional distress already being experienced by the families involved.
Oyelade explained that the administration of Governor Makinde remains committed to securing the freedom of the abducted victims and is actively pursuing measures aimed at ensuring their safe return.
He revealed that government officials are implementing carefully planned and confidential strategies designed to produce a successful resolution to the situation.
Providing further insight into the government’s response, the commissioner said the Makinde-led administration continues to collaborate closely with security agencies as well as other key stakeholders involved in the rescue efforts.
He reassured residents of Oyo State that the government would remain steadfast in its pursuit of the abductees’ release and would continue working until they are safely reunited with their families.
