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On Thursday, June 4, 2026, Punch Newspapers reported that Sunday Igboho described how he was advised against leading a direct rescue mission during the abduction of teachers and students in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State. He said the well-being of the hostages was the primary concern behind his decision not to act immediately.
Igboho noted that intelligence gathered at the time suggested the kidnappers were closely watching events on the ground and had issued threats to harm the captives if any attempt was made to forcibly free them. This, he emphasized, made it essential to proceed cautiously and in coordination with official authorities to prevent further endangering the victims.
“They later told me,” Igboho said, “that the kidnappers warned if I tried to intervene personally to rescue the children, they would kill all of them.”
He added that this warning deeply affected him, as the safety of the students and educators was paramount throughout the incident. Any move that might heighten tensions, he explained, risked triggering dire outcomes for those held captive.
According to Igboho, the information he received highlighted the sensitivity of the situation and reinforced the importance of managing negotiations and rescue operations carefully, as efforts continued to ensure the safe return of the abducted individuals.
