The Oyo State Police Command has announced the safe release of Mr. Owoade Mathew, the abducted farmer and headmaster of Nomadic Basic School, Igbojaye, in Itesiwaju Local Government Area, following a coordinated security operation. Africans& Diaspora
In a press statement issued on Monday by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, the Command said the victim, who was kidnapped along the Igbojaye–Budo Aare bush road on July 12, 2026, regained his freedom on the evening of July 13.
According to the statement, the victim’s release was achieved after the immediate deployment of a coordinated joint security operation and sustained investigative efforts by the police and other security agencies.
The Command explained that the intense operational pressure mounted on the abductors forced them to abandon the victim, leading to his safe recovery.
Mr. Owoade has since been taken to a medical facility for evaluation and necessary treatment. The police said he would be debriefed after receiving medical attention as part of ongoing investigations aimed at identifying, arresting and prosecuting those behind the abduction.
The Commissioner of Police in Oyo State, CP Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, commended the support and cooperation of other security agencies, community members and residents throughout the rescue operation. Africans& Diaspora
He reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to protecting lives and property across the state, assuring residents that criminal elements would not be allowed to find safe haven in Oyo State.
The police also urged members of the public to remain vigilant and continue to provide timely and credible information to support ongoing security operations.
