Kidnapped Oyo School Principal Calls for Negotiation as Captives Remain in Abduction Crisis

The abducted school principal, identified as Rachael Alamu, has made a fresh appeal in a video calling for negotiation efforts aimed at securing the release of kidnapped pupils and teachers in Oyo State.

The incident reportedly occurred on May 15, 2026, when armed men abducted pupils aged between 2 and 16 years, alongside teachers from schools around the Ogbomosho axis of the state. One teacher and an assistant headmaster were reportedly killed during the attack.

In the latest video, Alamu reportedly refuted circulating claims that the abductors demanded a ₦1 billion ransom or imposed religious conditions, stating instead that the captors were requesting negotiations centered on prisoner releases.

She further clarified that no form of religious coercion was involved, countering widespread narratives on social media regarding the motives behind the abduction.

The case has continued to draw national attention as families of the victims and concerned stakeholders call for urgent action, even as rescue operations remain ongoing without confirmed breakthroughs after several weeks.

Authorities are maintaining a no-ransom policy stance, while security agencies continue coordinated efforts to locate and rescue the victims safely.

The situation has intensified public concern over school safety and insecurity in parts of the state, with calls for stronger protective measures for educational institutions.