In a prompt reaction to the destructive rumours making the rounds, the Oyo State Government has denied reports claiming it paid ransom to secure the release of pupils and teachers abducted by bandits in Oriire Local Government Area.
The Commissioner for Information, Dotun Oyelade, in a statement on Friday, described the claim as “far from the truth” and a deliberate attempt by “irresponsible bloggers” to create confusion and misinform the public.
Oyelade made it clear that the allegation is totally false and misleading.
According to the Commissioner: “Although both the Oyo State and Federal Governments have been making concerted efforts to secure the safe release of the abducted children and their teachers, no ransom has been paid to the bandits, either directly or indirectly.”
He therefore enjoined the public to disregard the reports and rely only on information released through official government channels.
The commissioner maintained that the Oyo State Government is working closely with security agencies to ensure safe release of the abductees and bring this sad event to a close.
Recall, schoolchildren and teachers abducted on May 15 from three schools in Yawota and Ahoro-Esienle in Oriire Local Government Area, Oyo State, by suspected bandits are still held in capitivity.
