‎Oyo Police rescue abducted headmaster after joint security operation

‎Ibadan, July 13, 2026 — The Oyo State Police Command has announced the safe release of a headmaster, Mr. Owoade Mathew, who was abducted along the Igbojaye–Budo Aare bush road in Oyo State on July 12.
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‎The state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRao), DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, in a statement, said the victim regained his freedom on Monday evening, July 13 following an intensive joint security operation and sustained investigative efforts by security agencies.
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‎Ayanlade said the operational pressure mounted on the abductors compelled them to abandon the victim, leading to his release.
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‎He further disclosed that Mr. Mathew has been taken to a medical facility for evaluation and treatment, adding that after receiving medical attention, the victim would be debriefed by investigators as part of ongoing efforts to identify, arrest, and prosecute those responsible for the abduction.
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‎Reacting to the development, the Commissioner of Police in Oyo State, CP Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, commended the collaboration among security agencies, community members, and residents whose support contributed to the successful outcome of the operation.
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‎He reiterated the Command’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the state, assuring residents that security operatives would continue to pursue criminal elements and deny them any safe haven in the state.
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‎The police also appealed to members of the public to remain vigilant and provide timely and credible information to assist ongoing security operations.
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