Kidnapped Oyo headmaster regains freedom after security operation

The Oyo State Police Command has confirmed the release of a kidnapped headmaster, Mathew Owoade, following sustained security operations that reportedly forced his abductors to abandon him.

Owoade, a 60-year-old farmer and headmaster, was abducted on Saturday evening along the Igbojaye–Budo Aare bush road in Itesiwaju Local Government Area of Oyo State.

Confirming the development in a statement issued on Monday in Ibadan, the spokesperson for the Oyo State Police Command, CSP Olayinka Ayanlade, said the victim regained his freedom after an intensive joint security operation launched immediately after the abduction.

According to the police, sustained pressure mounted by security operatives compelled the kidnappers to abandon the victim, leading to his safe recovery.

The command reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property across the state and assured residents that efforts were ongoing to apprehend those responsible for the abduction.

It also urged members of the public to continue supporting security agencies with credible and timely information to enhance the fight against crime.