Kidnappers kill abducted Oyo teacher as rescue efforts continue

One of the teachers abducted from Community High School, Ahoro-Esinle, in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, identified as Michael Oyedokun, has been murdered by his captors.

Oyedokun was reportedly beheaded in a video released by the kidnappers on Sunday.

The footage circulating on Telegram on Monday reportedly depicted the teacher being tied up and made to talk before his death, reigniting worries about the safety of other victims still held captive.

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The community is now mourning after the incident, while residents and the families of the abducted victims are calling on security agencies and the Oyo State Government to step up efforts to free those still in captivity.

Dr. Suleimon Olanrewaju, spokesperson for Governor Seyi Makinde, confirmed that the governor had conveyed condolences to the victim’s family.

He also assured residents that a combination of military and non-military strategies is being used to rescue the remaining hostages.

He disclosed that approximately six suspects linked to the abduction had been arrested.

Olanrewaju also sympathised with the families of victims and members of the rescue team—including soldiers, the Amotekun Corps, and local vigilantes—who reportedly lost their lives during rescue operations.

He urged the families of the abducted victims, religious leaders, and other stakeholders to remain patient, assuring them that the government remains committed to reuniting the victims with their families.

“There may not be quick fixes, but we will continue to do everything possible to resolve the situation as quickly as we can,” he said.

According to him, seven teachers were abducted in total, and authorities received the disturbing video on Monday showing that one of the victims, believed to be a mathematics teacher, had been killed.

Governor Makinde also revealed that security agencies had made progress in the investigation.

According to the Commissioner of Police, approximately six people have been detained in the area. We suspect some of them may have acted as informants or logistical support for the kidnappers. Furthermore, another security agency has arrested three persons of interest in the state.

The gunmen reportedly attacked the school on Friday, 15 May, abducting the principal, several teachers, and students.

The incident happened only weeks after a failed kidnapping attempt on the Ibadan-Ijebu road, which resulted in one traveller being killed.

This has intensified worries about rising insecurity in certain areas of Oyo State and nationwide.