The Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Debo Ogundoyin, says the state government will not negotiate with terrorists behind the abduction of 45 students and seven teachers in Orire Local Government Area.
The victims were kidnapped on May 15 from the Esienle and Yawota communities, sparking widespread outrage and concern across the state.
Speaking during plenary, Ogundoyin disclosed that the abductors had reached out to the government with certain conditions for the release of the hostages, but declined to reveal the details.
“If you were in government, would you negotiate with terrorists?” he asked. “If they demand weapons, huge sums of money, or concessions that could shape future laws of this country, would you agree to such terms?”
He urged members of the public to remain calm and avoid speculation, stressing that sensitive aspects of the situation were being handled by security authorities.
“We must be sensitive and calm. The public does not have all the facts. The more you negotiate with these criminals, the more you embolden them,” he said.
Ogundoyin assured residents that the state government is working closely with security agencies and deploying all available resources to secure the safe rescue of the abducted pupils and teachers.
