Social media commentator VeryDarkMan has claimed that the Oyo State Government paid a ransom for abducted pupils and teachers who remain in captivity.
IBADAN, OYO STATE — VeryDarkMan has alleged that the Oyo State Government paid a ransom to secure the release of 39 schoolchildren and seven teachers who were abducted by bandits. According to the commentator, the victims have now spent 49 days in captivity despite the alleged payment.
In a statement shared on social media, VeryDarkMan claimed he received information indicating that the government made the payment in an effort to secure the release of the victims. He further alleged that the kidnappers still refused to release the children and teachers after receiving the money.
The commentator did not provide evidence to support the claim, and authorities in Oyo State had not publicly confirmed the allegation at the time of this report. The state government also had not issued an official response regarding the alleged ransom payment.
Kidnappings involving schoolchildren and teachers have remained a major security concern in several parts of Nigeria, with governments and security agencies facing increasing pressure to improve safety in schools and communities. Authorities often avoid confirming ransom negotiations because of concerns that such disclosures could encourage further abductions.
The alleged incident has generated reactions online, with many Nigerians expressing concern over the safety of the victims and calling for urgent efforts to secure their release. Others have urged the government to provide clarity on the claims and update the public on the status of the rescue operation.
The development means public attention is likely to remain focused on the fate of the abducted children and teachers. It also highlights the continued security challenges facing communities and the growing demand for effective measures to tackle kidnapping and protect vulnerable groups.
