Suspected terrorists who abducted pupils and teachers from three schools in Esinele, Yamota, and Alawusa communities in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State have reportedly opened communication channels with the state government.

Sources familiar with the development disclosed that the abductors refused to negotiate with the families of the victims, insisting that discussions must be held directly with the Oyo State Government.

According to the sources, the kidnappers demanded to speak only with government representatives, while details of their demands have not been made public.

The development is seen as a significant breakthrough in efforts to secure the release of the victims, who have now spent more than a week in captivity.

Among those abducted are pupils, teachers, and toddlers, reportedly aged between two and three years, raising concerns over their well-being as the rainy season intensifies.

Community leaders and relatives expressed fears about the harsh conditions the victims may be facing, especially as reports suggest they are being moved through forests to evade security operatives.

The Special Adviser to Governor Seyi Makinde on Security, Abayomi Fagbenro, declined to comment on the ongoing negotiations.

The abduction has triggered widespread panic across Ogbomoso and neighbouring communities, leading to a sharp drop in school attendance.

Teachers reported that many parents have withdrawn their children from schools due to security fears, while attendance among teachers has also declined in some affected areas.

The situation has been worsened by the deaths of two teachers linked to the incident. Former assistant headmaster Joel Adesiyan was killed during the attack and buried on Friday, while another teacher, Michael Oyedokun, was reportedly beheaded while in captivity.

Family members of Oyedokun described his death as a devastating loss, revealing that he had been married for more than 10 years without having children.

Meanwhile, the Oyo State Government attributed some of the growing panic to misinformation circulating on social media, insisting that efforts are ongoing to secure the release of the abducted victims and strengthen security around schools and vulnerable communities.

The incident has renewed concerns about the safety of students and teachers in rural communities as authorities continue efforts to tackle rising insecurity in parts of the state.