By Ayomide Otitoju
The Oyo State Government has lifted the curfew imposed on 10 local government areas following the recent kidnapping of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area.
The curfew, initially imposed for 16 hours and later extended by an additional day, was introduced as part of efforts to strengthen security and support rescue operations after the abduction.
Announcing the development in a statement, the Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, said residents could now resume their normal activities.
He thanked residents of the affected communities for their cooperation, patience and understanding during the period of the restriction.
Oyelade said the government was closely monitoring the security situation and assured residents that efforts were ongoing to ensure the safe resolution of the kidnapping incident.
The affected local government areas are Oriire, Orelope, Irepo, Saki West, Saki East, Atisbo, Itesiwaju, Iseyin, Olorunsogo and Atiba.
The abduction occurred on May 15 when suspected gunmen invaded Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota Community Grammar School and L.A. Primary School in Esiele, Oriire Local Government Area, and kidnapped 45 pupils and teachers.
Days after the attack, one of the abducted victims, a Mathematics teacher, was reportedly killed by the kidnappers.
The state government has reiterated its commitment to restoring security across the affected communities and securing the release of the remaining victims.
