Fear has gripped a community in Oyo State after gunmen abducted a school headmaster. The attackers are demanding N30 million, while security agencies intensify efforts to secure his release.
ITESIWAJU, OYO STATE — Kolawale Mathew Owoade, the 60-year-old headmaster of Nomadic Basic School, Igbojaye, has reportedly been abducted by gunmen in Budo Aare, Itesiwaju Local Government Area of Oyo State. According to the Nigeria Police Force, the incident happened on Saturday evening as the victim was returning from his farm. His family later received a call from the abductors demanding N30 million for his release.
Why This Happened
According to the victim’s son, Abiola Owoade, the gunmen intercepted his father while he was travelling home from his farm before taking him to an unknown location. A search team later found his abandoned motorcycle in a nearby bush, increasing concerns over his safety.
The incident comes only days after security agencies rescued dozens of pupils and teachers who had earlier been abducted in another part of Oyo State, highlighting continuing security challenges in some rural communities.
What They Said
Confirming the incident, Oyo State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, said the victim was abducted while at his farm in Budo Aare. He added that security operatives have launched efforts to rescue him safely and arrest those responsible.
Family members, colleagues and residents have appealed to the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Amotekun Corps and other security agencies to intensify rescue efforts.
Who Is Kolawale Mathew Owoade?
Kolawale Mathew Owoade, popularly known as “Onaiye”, is the headmaster of Nomadic Basic School, Igbojaye, in Itesiwaju Local Government Area of Oyo State. He is widely known within the local education community and has served as an educator for several years.
What This Means for Nigeria
The development means security concerns remain a major issue for schools and rural communities despite recent rescue operations in Oyo State. Investigators are continuing efforts to locate the abducted headmaster, while residents hope for his safe return and improved protection for teachers and other community members.
RELATED: Oyo Security Forces Rescue Abducted Pupils and Teachers After Weeks in Captivity
