Gunmen Kidnap Oyo Primary School Headmaster, Demand ₦30 Million Ransom
A primary school headmaster in Itesiwaju Local Government Area of Oyo State has reportedly been abducted by suspected gunmen, less than a day after security forces secured the release of pupils and teachers previously kidnapped in another part of the state.
The victim, Matthew Owoade, 60, is the headmaster of Nomadic Basic School, Igbojaye, and a member of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT).
Headmaster Abducted While Returning From Farm
According to reports, Mr. Owoade was kidnapped around 6:00 p.m. on Saturday while returning home from his farm in Budo Aare, Itesiwaju Local Government Area.
The attackers allegedly intercepted him along the road and took him to an unknown location.
Family members later received a phone call from the abductors through the victim’s mobile phone, during which they reportedly demanded ₦30 million as ransom for his release.
Community Discovers Abandoned Motorcycle
Residents who launched a search for the missing headmaster reportedly found his abandoned motorcycle hidden inside a nearby bush on Sunday morning, raising further concerns about his safety.
The incident has heightened fears among teachers and residents, especially after the recent rescue of schoolchildren and teachers who had spent several weeks in captivity in Oriire Local Government Area.
NUT Confirms Incident
The Oyo State chapter of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) confirmed the abduction.
The union’s secretary, Salami Olukayode, said the incident has been reported to the police, the local government authorities, and other relevant agencies.
He expressed optimism that coordinated efforts would lead to the victim’s safe release.
Calls for Swift Rescue
Family members, colleagues, and community leaders have appealed to security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), to intensify efforts to rescue the headmaster without harm.
As of the time of filing this report, the Oyo State Police Command had not issued an official statement regarding the incident.
Fresh fears in Oyo as gunmen kidnap school headmaster
