The bandits that attacked schools in Ahoro-Esinele, Yawota and Esiele communities in Orire Local Government Area are believed to have made outrageous ransom demands of one billion Naira which is to be paid into a designated account in Benin Republic, two Hilux vehicles and the release of arrested armed men in in various security detention.
The demands which have not been officially confirmed by either the Federal or Oyo State Governments have generated public outrage even as pressure has continued to mount in Oyo State and across parts of the country over the abduction of dozens of schoolchildren and teachers,
It was gathered that the bandits are insisting on their stringent demands being met as condition for the release of their victims, majority of whom are school children.
The terrorists who struck on May 15, 2026, in a coordinated attack on schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo state, it was gathered are also demanding the immediate release of some bandits currently being held in Agodi Correctional Facility in Ibadan and Abolongo Correctional Centre in Oyo Town.
It was also gathered that they also demanded for the concession or amendment of certain laws relating to land acquisition in Oyo State.
Expectedly, the demands have sparked widespread shock and condemnation, with many describing them as not only outrageous, but also indicative of a dangerous level of audacity by criminal elements operating within the state and the country at large.
The terrorists attacked three schools namely; Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery and Primary School, and L.A. Primary School and abducted approximately 39 pupils and seven teachers while one of the teachers and a student were reportedly killed during the incident.
The incident Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) in Oyo State declared a protest and were joined by their counterparts in Edo, FCT, and other states in solidarity and called for urgent rescue operations.
Specifically, the Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde had earlier indicated the government’s willingness to listen to the abductors’ demands and address what is feasible, even as security agencies intensify rescue measures and possible rescue.
However, the Oyo State House of Assembly has rejected outright negotiations with the bandits, demanding intensified rescue operations instead.
The latest stance was announced by the Speaker of the State Assembly, stating the need to intensify discussions about the government’s approach to negotiating with terrorist groups, even against the backdrop of the fact that the families of the victims have intensified pressure and push for the urgent action to secure the release of their loved ones.
