Matthew Owoade, the headmaster of Nomadic Basic School in Igbojaye, Itesiwaju Local Government Area of Oyo State, has regained his freedom after spending days in the custody of kidnappers.
Owoade, who also works as a farmer, was abducted on Saturday, July 11, 2026, along the Igbojaye–Budo Aare bush road. Following the incident, his captors reportedly established contact with his family and demanded a ransom of N30 million in exchange for his release.
Confirming the development on Monday night, July 13, the spokesperson for the Oyo State Police Command, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, said the victim regained his freedom after sustained security operations mounted by law enforcement agencies.
According to the police, a coordinated joint operation was launched immediately after the abduction was reported. The intensified search and investigative efforts placed significant pressure on the kidnappers, forcing them to abandon their captive.
The police said Owoade was safely recovered on the evening of July 13 and has since been taken to a medical facility for examination and treatment.
The command added that after receiving medical attention, the headmaster will be debriefed by investigators to assist ongoing efforts aimed at identifying and arresting everyone involved in the kidnapping.
Oyo State Commissioner of Police, CP Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, commended the collaboration among security agencies, local communities, and residents whose support contributed to the successful operation.
He reaffirmed the command’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the state, stressing that criminal groups would not be allowed to operate freely in Oyo State.
The police also appealed to residents to remain vigilant and continue providing timely and credible information that could support ongoing security operations and help prevent future crimes.
