An abducted headteacher, Owoade Mathew, has regained his freedom following a coordinated rescue operation by the Oyo State Police Command and other security agencies.
Mathew, who is also a farmer, was abducted on Saturday, July 12, 2026, along the Igbojaye-Budo Aare bush road in Oyo State. His abduction triggered a swift security response aimed at securing his safe release.
Confirming the development in a statement issued on Monday, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, said sustained investigative efforts and intense operational pressure mounted on the kidnappers forced them to abandon the victim on Monday evening, less than 24 hours after his abduction.
According to the police, the successful rescue was the result of a coordinated operation involving officers of the Oyo State Police Command and other security agencies working together to track the abductors and secure the victim’s freedom.
Following his rescue, Mathew was taken to a medical facility for evaluation and necessary treatment to determine his physical condition after the ordeal. The command added that he would be debriefed by investigators after receiving medical attention to obtain information that could aid efforts to apprehend those responsible for the abduction.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police in Oyo State, CP Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, commended the professionalism and dedication of security personnel involved in the operation. He also appreciated community members and residents whose cooperation and timely information contributed to the success of the rescue mission.
The police commissioner reassured residents of the command’s commitment to protecting lives and property across the state, stressing that criminal elements would not be allowed to operate freely or find safe haven in Oyo. He urged members of the public to remain vigilant and continue sharing credible and timely information with security agencies.
Furthermore, the command emphasized that effective collaboration between residents and law enforcement remains essential to tackling security challenges across the state. It advised members of the public to promptly report suspicious activities through the Oyo State Emergency Response toll-free line, 615, or the Police Command Control Room numbers 08081768614 and 07055495413.
