Segun Atanda/
Fresh controversy has erupted over the investigation into the abduction of dozens of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, following reports linking a traditional ruler to the ongoing probe.
Several media reports on Wednesday claimed that Oba Tajudeen Abioye, the Eleshi Ele of Esiele, had been arrested by security operatives in connection with investigations into the mass abduction that shocked the state in May.
The reports alleged that the monarch was being questioned over possible links to individuals under investigation.
However, the claims have been strongly disputed by both the monarch and the police.
Speaking in response to the reports, Oba Abioye described the allegations as false and misleading, insisting that he had neither been arrested nor detained by any security agency.
The Oyo State Police Command also dismissed the reports, maintaining that no such arrest had taken place.
The development comes amid heightened public anxiety over the fate of victims abducted during coordinated attacks on schools in Oriire Local Government Area.
Armed attackers stormed several schools in the area in May, killing at least one teacher and abducting scores of pupils, students and school personnel.
The attacks targeted Community Grammar School, Esiele; Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota; and L.A. Primary School, triggering widespread outrage and renewed concerns over insecurity in parts of the South-West.
At the time of the attack, Oba Abioye was among community leaders who publicly condemned the incident and appealed to the government and security agencies to secure the release of the victims.
He confirmed that dozens of children had been taken by the gunmen and urged authorities to intensify rescue efforts.
Community sources subsequently released details indicating that about 46 persons, including pupils and teachers, were abducted during the raid.
The incident has been described as one of the most devastating school attacks recorded in Oyo State in recent years.
Security agencies have continued investigations into the abduction, while efforts to rescue those still in captivity remain ongoing.
Authorities have yet to issue any formal statement linking the monarch to the crime or announcing any arrest in connection with the latest claims.
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