Abducted Oyo headmaster regains freedom after security pressure on kidnappers

The abducted headmaster of Nomadic Basic School, Igbojaye, in Itesiwaju Local Government Area of Oyo State, Matthew Owoade, has regained his freedom.

LIB reported that Owoade, also a farmer, was abducted along the Igbojaye–Budo Aare bush on Saturday, July 11.

The abductors contacted the victim’s family and demanded N30m for his release. 

The spokesperson for the command, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, confirmed the development in a statement on Monday night, 13th July, 2026.

According to the PPRO, security operatives intensified efforts immediately after receiving information abduct the abduction. 

Olayinka said the sustained operation forced the kidnappers to abandon the victim.

“The Oyo State Police Command wishes to update members of the public on the earlier press release issued on 13 July 2026 regarding the abduction of a farmer, Mr. Owoade Mathew, who was kidnapped along the Igbojaye–Budo Aare bush road in Oyo State on 12 July 2026,” the statement read.

 

“Following the immediate deployment of a coordinated joint security operation and sustained investigative efforts by the Command, the intense operational pressure mounted on the abductors forced the hoodlums to abandon the victim, who regained his freedom on the evening of 13 July 2026.

 

“The victim has since been taken to a medical facility for evaluation and necessary treatment. 

 

“Upon completion of medical attention, he will be debriefed by investigators as part of the ongoing investigation aimed at identifying, apprehending, and prosecuting all those responsible for the criminal act.

 

“The Commissioner of Police, Oyo State Command, CP Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, psc, mnips, appreciates the unwavering support and cooperation of other security agencies, community members, and all well-meaning citizens throughout the operation. 

 

“He reassures residents that the Command remains resolute in its commitment to protecting lives and property and ensuring that criminal elements have no safe haven in Oyo State.

 

“The Command further urges members of the public to remain vigilant and continue to provide timely and credible information that will aid ongoing security operations.”