The armed group responsible for the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in parts of Oyo State has reportedly established contact with authorities and is demanding direct negotiations with Governor Seyi Makinde as a condition for further discussions on the release of hostages.
Security sources and government officials confirmed that communication lines have been opened with the kidnappers, marking a potential breakthrough in efforts to secure the release of victims who have now spent more than a week in captivity in a forested area along the Old Oyo National Park axis.
The incident began on Friday, May 15, 2026, when armed men carried out coordinated attacks on schools in the Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State. The attackers reportedly stormed multiple educational facilities in the Ahoro Esinele community, abducting students and teachers before fleeing into surrounding forest reserves.
According to official figures, about 39 schoolchildren and seven teachers were taken during the raids. The victims include very young pupils, with some reported to be as young as two to five years old, prompting widespread outrage and renewed calls for improved school security across the region.
The abductees are believed to be held deep within dense forest terrain near the border areas, where security operations have been ongoing.
Authorities say joint teams comprising military personnel, police tactical units, and local security collaborators have intensified search-and-rescue efforts. However, operations have been complicated by difficult terrain, limited visibility, and security risks along forest routes.
Governor Makinde has previously acknowledged that security forces have faced operational challenges in the area, including risks posed by suspected explosive devices and ambush tactics used by the armed group.
In a new development, the abductors have reportedly refused to engage intermediaries or local negotiators, insisting that they will only speak directly with Governor Makinde.
Security officials described the demand as a significant shift in the group’s posture, suggesting an attempt to elevate the political stakes of the negotiations.
The Oyo State Government has not publicly confirmed the terms of engagement but has reiterated its commitment to securing the safe return of all abducted persons without conceding to conditions that could encourage further attacks.
Authorities also confirmed that several individuals suspected of providing logistical support and intelligence for the kidnappers have been arrested within the Oriire axis. Investigators believe the suspects may have played roles in facilitating the attackers’ movements and planning.
Security agencies say ongoing intelligence operations are targeting supply routes and communication networks linked to the armed group, while aerial and ground surveillance continues across the forest corridor.
The abduction has intensified concerns over the safety of schools in rural parts of southwestern Nigeria, an area that has seen increasing incidents of kidnapping in recent years.
As negotiations and rescue efforts continue, families of the abducted students and teachers remain in distress, awaiting updates on their loved ones amid growing uncertainty over the outcome of the standoff.
