Suspected kidnappers behind the abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State have reportedly opened communication with the state government and demanded direct talks with Governor Seyi Makinde.

Sources familiar with the situation said the abductors refused to negotiate with families of the victims, insisting they would only speak with the governor or representatives of the government. The details of their demands were not disclosed as efforts continue to secure the release of the captives.

The victims, including schoolchildren and teachers from communities in Esinele, Yamota and Alawusa, were kidnapped during attacks on schools last Friday. Some of the abducted children are reportedly between two and three years old.

Residents and community leaders expressed concern over the safety of the victims, especially as the rainy season worsens conditions in forests and remote areas where the kidnappers are believed to be hiding.

Fear has also spread across Ogbomoso and neighbouring communities, with many parents withdrawing their children from schools over security concerns. Teachers said attendance in several public and private schools had dropped sharply since the incident.

The situation was further worsened by reports of panic among students earlier in the week after rumours of suspicious movements around a school environment triggered chaos in Ogbomoso.

Teachers described the atmosphere in the affected communities as tense and traumatising, especially following the killing of two teachers linked to the attack.

The Oyo State Government said it was aware of growing fears among residents but urged the public to ignore false information circulating on social media. Authorities also assured residents that efforts were ongoing to rescue those still in captivity safely.