The Oyo State government has dismissed reports circulating on social media claiming that pupils, students and teachers abducted in Oriire Local Government Area have been rescued and reunited with their families.
Authorities described the viral video making the rounds online as false and misleading, warning that the content could worsen anxiety among residents and families of the victims.
The Commissioner for Information and Civic Orientation, Prince Dotun Oyelade, clarified that the abductees have not regained their freedom, contrary to claims contained in the widely shared footage.
According to him, the state government remains actively involved in ongoing efforts aimed at securing the safe release of the victims through carefully coordinated interventions.
“The viral video about the release of those abducted at Oriire in Oyo State is unfortunately untrue,” Oyelade said.
He explained that the government was continuing discreet engagements and security operations, expressing optimism that the efforts would soon produce positive results.
“The state government continues its discreet interventions, which we are very hopeful will yield the desired result soon. We thank all for their patience,” he added.
Oyelade cautioned residents and social media users against spreading unverified information, stressing that false reports could deepen fear, create confusion and cause additional emotional distress for families awaiting the return of their loved ones.
He urged the public to rely only on official communication regarding developments surrounding the abduction case.
The commissioner further assured residents that the administration was working closely with security agencies and other relevant stakeholders to ensure that all necessary measures were taken to secure the release of the abductees.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment, Oyelade stated that authorities would continue pursuing every available option until the victims were safely reunited with their families.
He also appreciated residents of the state for their patience, cooperation and support during the period of uncertainty.
The abduction incident in Oriire Local Government Area has continued to attract widespread concern across Oyo State, with community leaders, residents and security agencies closely monitoring efforts to rescue the victims.
As investigations and rescue operations continue, the government has appealed for calm while insisting that only verified information from official sources should be trusted.
