In a major victory for security forces in Oyo State, Matthew Owoade, the abducted headmaster of Nomadic Basic School in Igbojaye, has successfully regained his freedom. The local educator and farmer was released following intense, coordinated pressure from a joint security team that forced his captors to abandon him and flee.
The Abduction and Ransom Demand
Mr. Owoade’s ordeal began when he was ambushed and kidnapped along the Igbojaye–Budo Aare bush road. Shortly after his disappearance, the abductors established contact with his family, demanding a staggering N30 million ransom for his safe release. However, before any exchange could occur, law enforcement stepped in with a robust response.
How Security Forces Cracked the Case
According to a statement released by the Oyo State Police Command’s spokesperson, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, security operatives swung into action immediately after receiving reports of the abduction. The Command deployed a highly coordinated joint security operation, launching a relentless manhunt in the surrounding forests.
This sustained operational pressure proved too overwhelming for the kidnappers. Fearing apprehension, the hoodlums abandoned the victim in the bush on the evening of Monday, July 13, 2026, allowing him to walk to safety.
Medical Care and Ongoing Investigations
The rescued headmaster has since been taken to a medical facility, where he is currently undergoing thorough evaluation and receiving necessary treatment. Police officials confirmed that once he is medically cleared, investigators will debrief him to gather crucial intelligence that could lead to the arrest of the perpetrators.
Oyo State Commissioner of Police, CP Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, commended the joint security agencies, community members, and patriotic citizens for their unwavering support during the tense operation. He reiterated the command’s commitment to ensuring that Oyo State remains inhospitable to criminal elements, urging residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities promptly.