Panic has spread across parts of Oyo State following the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area, even as suspected terrorists behind the attack have reportedly opened communication with the state government.
Sources familiar with the development confirmed that the abductors of pupils and teachers from Esinele, Yamota and Alawusa communities have established contact but insisted on speaking directly with Governor Seyi Makinde, refusing to negotiate with families or community representatives.
According to officials privy to the discussions, the armed group made it clear that the condition for any negotiation is direct engagement with the governor, leaving the details of their demands undisclosed.
A source described the development as a cautious relief, noting that at least communication had begun, although the situation remained delicate and uncertain.
Authorities have not confirmed whether the governor is personally involved or has delegated representatives to handle the contact, as security officials continue to manage the situation discreetly to avoid endangering the victims.
Meanwhile, tension has escalated in affected communities as schools across Ogbomoso and neighbouring areas recorded mass shutdowns and low attendance following the incident.
Teachers and parents have withdrawn pupils from classrooms over fears of further attacks, with several schools reportedly empty since the abduction last Friday.
Some educators said panic worsened after rumours and sightings triggered confusion in nearby communities, forcing students and staff to flee school premises in fear.
In one incident, a teacher narrated that panic spread rapidly after students mistook activities in nearby bushes for armed movement, leading to chaos and a tragic accident in which a pupil was knocked down by a vehicle.
The situation has also affected public school operations, with many teachers reportedly leaving school early or staying away entirely due to safety concerns.
Community leaders say fear has deepened as the abducted victims, including toddlers, have now spent over a week in captivity, with worries mounting over their condition in difficult terrain and forest environments.
A teacher in one of the affected communities said attendance has dropped drastically, adding that parents now prefer to keep children at home until security improves.
Another educator described the atmosphere as traumatic, noting that teachers are also struggling with fear following reports that colleagues were killed during the attack.
The Oyo State Government has assured residents that efforts are ongoing to secure the release of the abducted victims, while urging calm and caution over unverified information circulating on social media.
Officials warned that misinformation could heighten public anxiety and complicate ongoing security efforts.
