The headmaster of Nomadic Basic School in Igbojaye, Itesiwaju Local Government Area of Oyo State, Matthew Owoade, has regained his freedom just two days after he was abducted by armed men.
The Oyo State Police Command confirmed that Owoade was rescued on Monday evening after a coordinated security operation placed sustained pressure on the kidnappers, forcing them to abandon their captive.
Police spokesperson Ayanlade Olayinka said security agencies launched an immediate joint operation after receiving reports of the abduction. He explained that the continuous search and investigative efforts compelled the suspects to flee, leading to the victim’s release.
“Following the immediate deployment of a coordinated joint security operation and sustained investigative efforts by the Command, the intense operational pressure mounted on the abductors forced the hoodlums to abandon the victim, who regained his freedom on the evening of 13 July 2026,” Olayinka said.
The police disclosed that the headmaster was taken to a medical facility for examination and treatment before undergoing further debriefing as part of the ongoing investigation.
According to the command, investigators are working to identify, arrest and prosecute everyone involved in the kidnapping. Authorities also revealed that a video circulating online captured the emotional moment Owoade reunited with his family and members of his community after his release.
Owoade’s release comes less than 24 hours after reports of his abduction emerged and shortly after the rescue of schoolchildren and teachers who spent 56 days in captivity following their kidnapping in neighbouring Oriire Local Government Area.
Oyo State Commissioner of Police, Abimbola Olugbenga, praised security agencies, local residents and community members for their support during the operation. He assured the public that the command would continue to strengthen security efforts across the state and deny criminal groups any safe haven.
