The Oyo State Police Command has confirmed the safe rescue of Mr. Owoade Mathew, a farmer and headmaster of Nomadic Basic School, Igbojaye, in Itesiwaju Local Government Area, following a coordinated security operation.
In a press statement released on Monday, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, said the victim, who was abducted along the Igbojaye–Budo Aare bush road on July 12, 2026, was freed on the evening of July 13.
According to the statement, the release was made possible through the swift deployment of a joint security operation and sustained investigative efforts by the police and other security agencies.
The Command stated that heavy operational pressure on the abductors forced them to abandon the victim, which led to his safe recovery.
Mr. Owoade has since been taken to a medical facility for examination and treatment. The police added that he will be debriefed after medical attention as part of ongoing investigations to identify, arrest, and prosecute those responsible for the abduction.
The Commissioner of Police in Oyo State, CP Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, praised the support and cooperation of other security agencies, community members, and residents during the rescue mission.
He reiterated the Command’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the state, assuring residents that criminals will not be allowed to operate freely in Oyo State.
The police also called on members of the public to remain alert and to provide timely and credible information to aid ongoing security operations.