Police Deny Inviting Oyo Traditional Ruler Over Abduction Of Schoolchildren, Teachers

The Oyo State Police Command has dismissed as false reports claiming that High Chief Tajudeen Abioye, the Elesinele of Esinele in Oriire Local Government Area of the State, was invited for questioning over the ongoing investigation into the abduction of teachers and schoolchildren in the community.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, said the traditional ruler was never invited by the police in connection with the case, describing the report circulating online as misleading and unfounded.

The command alleged that the publication was part of a deliberate misinformation campaign by criminal elements aimed at creating division, generating unnecessary tension and undermining efforts to rescue the abducted victims and apprehend those responsible.

According to the police, the report was entirely false and should be disregarded by members of the public.

The command urged residents to avoid sharing unverified information capable of jeopardising ongoing security operations, stressing the importance of relying on credible and official sources for updates on the investigation.

Reaffirming its commitment to securing the safe release of the victims, the police said it would continue to work closely with relevant stakeholders and other security agencies to ensure the success of ongoing rescue efforts.

The command also called on residents to support security operations by providing credible and timely information through appropriate channels, noting that public cooperation remains vital in efforts to combat crime and enhance safety across affected communities.

The clarification came amid ongoing efforts by the Oyo State Police Command to secure the release of the abducted teachers and pupils and bring the perpetrators to justice.