The Oyo State Police Command has confirmed the release of Mathew Owoade, a headmaster and farmer who was abducted over the weekend in Itesiwaju Local Government Area, following what authorities described as an intensive security operation.
Owoade, 60, was kidnapped on Saturday evening along the Igbojaye–Budo Aare bush road, prompting a swift response from security agencies. According to the police, sustained pressure mounted on the abductors forced them to abandon the victim, who regained his freedom on Monday.
In a statement issued in Ibadan, the command’s spokesperson, Olayinka Ayanlade, said a coordinated operation involving multiple security agencies was launched immediately after the incident was reported.
He explained that the combined efforts of investigators and security personnel significantly disrupted the activities of the kidnappers, eventually compelling them to release the headmaster.
“The intense operational pressure mounted on the abductors forced the hoodlums to abandon the victim, who regained his freedom on the evening of July 13, 2026,” the statement said.
Police authorities disclosed that Owoade has since been taken to a medical facility, where he is receiving treatment and undergoing evaluation following his ordeal.
Investigators are expected to formally debrief him after his medical care is completed as part of ongoing efforts to identify, arrest and prosecute those behind the abduction.
The police added that the investigation remains active and that security agencies are working to track down all individuals connected to the crime.
Reacting to the successful rescue, the Commissioner of Police in Oyo State, Olugbenga Abimbola, commended the various security agencies involved in the operation, as well as residents and members of the local community who provided support.
He reiterated the command’s commitment to protecting lives and property across the state and assured residents that law enforcement agencies would continue to intensify efforts against criminal groups operating in Oyo.
According to the commissioner, security operatives remain determined to deny kidnappers and other offenders safe havens within the state.
The latest incident comes amid growing concerns over insecurity in parts of Oyo State, with authorities repeatedly pledging to strengthen surveillance and improve coordination among security agencies to curb kidnapping and other violent crimes.
Police urged residents to remain vigilant and continue providing useful information that could assist ongoing operations against criminal elements.
