Police secure safe release of abducted headmaster in Oyo

The Oyo State Police Command has secured release of Owoade Mathew, the abducted farmer and headmaster of Nomadic Basic School, Igbojaye, in Itesiwaju Local Government Area.

Owoade, who was kidnapped along the Igbojaye–Budo Aare bush road in Oyo State on Saturday, was released following a coordinated security operation.

Ayanlade Oluseyi Olayinka, Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Oyo State Police Command, in statement, said 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.

Ayanlade said the victim had 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.

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

He reassured 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 urged members of the public to remain vigilant and continue to provide timely and credible information that will aid ongoing security operations.