Police Assure Safe Rescue of Abducted Oyo Schoolchildren, Dismiss Ransom Talks

The Nigeria Police Force has pledged to secure the safe release of schoolchildren and teachers recently abducted in Oyo State. Speaking during an official visit to the Lagos State Police Command headquarters on Monday, the South-West Coordinating Deputy Inspector-General of Police (DIG), Adegoke Fayoade, confirmed that multi-agency rescue operations are currently underway.

Addressing concerns regarding reports of ransom demands by the kidnappers, DIG Fayoade maintained that the police do not negotiate with abductors. He emphasized that the force’s singular operational priority is the rescue of the victims through tactical means.

“We don’t know anything about ransom because we don’t talk about ransom,” Fayoade stated. “All efforts are directed towards getting the abductees freed safely.”

The DIG assured the public that the government and relevant security formations are working intensely to resolve the situation, expressing confidence that the victims would be rescued in the shortest possible time.

During his visit to the command, the DIG also reviewed regional security strategies and emphasized the need for enhanced intelligence-led policing. He highlighted the Force’s ongoing efforts to integrate advanced technology, including centralized data systems and artificial intelligence, to better combat evolving security threats across the country.

Fayoade noted that while the police face challenges regarding logistics and manpower, current recruitment drives and welfare improvements remain top priorities for the Inspector-General of Police. He further called for continued collaboration between security agencies and the public, stressing that community cooperation is essential to maintaining national security and effective law enforcement.