Bandits kidnap Oyo headmaster, demand N30m ransom

Suspected bandits have abducted a 60-year-old school headmaster in Oyo State and are demanding ₦30 million for his release.

The victim, Kolawale Mathew Owoade, popularly known as Onaiye, is the headmaster of Nomadic Basic School in Igbojaye, Budo Aare, Itesiwaju Local Government Area.

Headmaster kidnapped while returning from farm

According to family members, Owoade was abducted on the evening of Saturday, July 11, while returning home from his farm in Budo Aare.

His son, Abiola Owoade, said the incident occurred between 5 p.m. and 6 p.m., adding that the kidnappers later reached out to the family using the victim’s mobile phone.

“They called us with my father’s phone shortly after the incident and demanded ₦30 million before they would release him,” he said.

Motorcycle recovered during search

Abiola disclosed that relatives and local residents launched a search for the missing headmaster after he failed to return home.

According to him, the search team found his abandoned motorcycle in a bush around 8:20 a.m. on Sunday, July 12, raising fears about his whereabouts.

Despite the discovery, the victim has yet to be rescued.

Police confirm abduction

The Oyo State Police Command has confirmed the kidnapping and assured residents that efforts are underway to rescue the victim.

Police Public Relations Officer, Olayinka Ayanlade, said the victim was abducted while at his farm in Budo Aare.

“I can confirm that a farmer, Mathew Owoade, was kidnapped at his farm in Budo Aare, and efforts are ongoing to rescue him unharmed and arrest those responsible,” the police spokesperson said.

Fresh security concerns in Oyo

The latest abduction comes days after security operatives successfully rescued more than 40 pupils and teachers who were held captive for 56 days following an attack on schools in Oyo State.