The Oyo State Government has denied reports claiming it paid ransom to secure the release of pupils and teachers abducted by bandits in Oriire Local Government Area, describing the allegation as false and misleading.

In a statement signed by the Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, the government described the claim as “far from the truth” and a deliberate attempt by “irresponsible bloggers” to create confusion and misinform the public.

Prince Oyelade explained that although both the Oyo State and Federal Governments have been making concerted efforts to secure the safe release of the abducted children and their teachers, no ransom has been paid to the bandits, either directly or indirectly.

He urged members of the public to disregard the reports and rely only on information released through official government channels.

The commissioner maintained that the Oyo State Government is working closely with security agencies to ensure safe release of the abductees and bring this sad event to a close.