A headmaster who was abducted in Oyo State has regained his freedom after a coordinated security operation reportedly forced his captors to abandon him.
The victim, Mathew Owoade, a 60-year-old farmer and headmaster, was kidnapped on Saturday along the Igbojaye–Budo Aare bush road in Itesiwaju Local Government Area.
Confirming the development on Monday, the Oyo State Police Command said sustained pressure mounted by security operatives led to the victim’s release.
According to the command’s spokesperson, Olayinka Ayanlade, security agencies immediately launched a joint operation after the abduction was reported, intensifying efforts to rescue the victim and track down the kidnappers.
He explained that the operation made it difficult for the abductors to continue holding Owoade, forcing them to abandon him on Monday evening.
Following his release, the headmaster was taken to a medical facility for evaluation and treatment before investigators begin a formal debriefing as part of the ongoing investigation.
The police said efforts are continuing to identify, arrest and prosecute everyone involved in the kidnapping.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Abimbola, commended other security agencies, local vigilantes and residents for their support throughout the rescue operation.
He also reassured residents that the command remains committed to protecting lives and property while intensifying efforts to rid the state of criminal elements.
The police urged members of the public to continue providing useful information that could assist security agencies in tackling crime across Oyo State.
Source: Nigeria Police Force.
