Social media activist VeryDarkMan has alleged that the Oyo State Government paid a ransom to abductors in an attempt to secure the release of 39 schoolchildren and seven teachers kidnapped in Orire Local Government Area of the state on May 15, 2026.
In a video posted on his social media platforms, the activist claimed the kidnappers allegedly failed to release the victims despite receiving the payment. He, however, admitted that he could not independently confirm the claim.
VeryDarkMan expressed concern that the victims had remained in captivity for 49 days, warning that they would mark 50 days in the hands of their abductors if they were not rescued.
He recalled that on June 17, 2026, concerned Nigerians staged a protest in Oyo State, demanding the immediate release of the children and teachers. According to him, Governor Seyi Makinde assured protesters that his administration would secure the freedom of the victims.
The activist accused the governor of failing to fulfil that promise, while also alleging that security agencies, including the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Police Force, and the Nigerian Army, appeared to have shifted their attention to other national issues, including preparations for the 2027 general elections.
Questioning the silence surrounding the abduction, VeryDarkMan urged Nigerians not to forget the victims, noting that some of the abducted children are reportedly under 10 years old, with a few said to be below four years of age.
“As we speak, these children are still in captivity. Are we really going to move on from this?” he asked.
Neither the Oyo State Government nor the relevant security agencies had responded to the activist’s allegations at the time of filing this report. The claim that a ransom was paid has not been independently verified.
