Suspected terrorists behind the abduction of pupils and teachers in Oyo State have reportedly opened communication with the state government as fear continues to spread across affected communities.
The attackers kidnapped pupils and teachers from schools in Esinele, Yamota, and Alawusa communities in Oriire Local Government Area.
Sources familiar with the development said the terrorists demanded direct talks with Governor Seyi Makinde and refused to negotiate with families of the victims.
“They said they only want to speak with the governor,” a source disclosed.
Although government officials have not confirmed who is handling the talks, security insiders described the communication as an important breakthrough.
Another source said security agencies were carefully managing the situation because of the high risk involved in any rescue operation.
The Oyo State Special Adviser on Security, Abayomi Fagbenro, declined to comment on the negotiations.
The abducted victims reportedly include toddlers aged between two and three years.
Families and community leaders have expressed concern about the safety of the children and teachers, especially as the rainy season intensifies.
Residents said the victims were being moved through forests and remote areas to avoid security operatives.
“We are worried because very young children are involved,” a community leader said.
The abductees have now spent more than one week in captivity, leaving many families traumatised and uncertain about their fate.
The incident has disrupted school activities in Ogbomoso and nearby communities, including Ikose, Ikoyi, Tewure, and Dananu.
Many parents have stopped sending their children to school because of security fears.
Teachers also said attendance has dropped sharply since the attack.
A teacher in the area explained that panic increased after students at another school raised a false alarm about armed men near their premises.
The confusion reportedly caused chaos, leading to the death of a pupil during the stampede.
“Since the attack happened, many classrooms have remained almost empty,” the teacher said.
Some parents now escort their children to school and return immediately after classes because they fear another attack.
The killings of two teachers during the crisis have also deepened fear among education workers.
One of the victims, Joel Adesiyan, was reportedly killed during the attack, while another teacher, Michael Oyedokun, was allegedly murdered in captivity.
Teachers described the situation as heartbreaking and traumatic.
“To be honest, many teachers are scared,” one teacher said. “Some are already considering avoiding remote schools.”
Education workers have called on the government to improve security around schools, especially those located near forests and isolated communities.
Oyo State Commissioner for Information, Dotun Oyelade, said false videos and rumours on social media were worsening fear across communities.
According to him, some online reports were misleading residents and increasing panic among parents.
“Yes, people are worried, but some of the videos being shared are not accurate,” he said.
He assured residents that the government was working to secure the release of all victims.
Meanwhile, emotions ran high during the burial of teacher Joel Adesiyan in Ogbomoso.
Family members, colleagues, and community leaders attended the funeral service and demanded justice for the slain teacher.
Governor Makinde, represented by government officials, assured residents that efforts were ongoing to rescue those still in captivity.
The Nigeria Union of Teachers described the late teacher as dedicated and peaceful.
The union also warned that insecurity was becoming a major threat to education in rural communities.
The incident has renewed concerns over rising attacks on schools and the growing insecurity affecting many parts of Nigeria.
Families of the abducted victims continue to hope for their safe return as negotiations with the terrorists reportedly continue.
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