Police have deployed ICT tools to secure the release of kidnapped Oyo school children

The Nigerian Police have intensified efforts to secure the freedom of dozens of kidnapped teachers and students in Oriire Local Government Area of ​​Oyo State, and authorities confirmed that advanced information and communications technology is now being used to track and rescue the victims.

This was disclosed by the Deputy Inspector General of Police in charge of ICT, Adegoke Fayoade, during a working visit to the Oyo Police Headquarters in Eleyele, Ibadan, where he met with officers, community leaders and other stakeholders.

According to the DIG, security agencies have activated specialized technological resources and expert personnel as part of ongoing operations to ensure safe recovery of those held hostage.

Speaking about the rescue efforts, Fayoade expressed optimism that the victims would soon regain their freedom unharmed.

“ICT technology is already being used to free abductees. It is only a matter of time. They will not be harmed.”

“We don’t want to experience additional losses. We want them all to get out, alive. And reunited with their families,” he said.

The National Police Chief explained that his visit to Oyo State was directed by the Inspector General of Police and was part of broader efforts to strengthen engagement with citizens while assuring them of the police’s commitment to maintaining security throughout the South West region.

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“I am in Oyo State on the mission of the Inspector General of Police. I am here to interact with the public and assure them that the police will continue to carry out their duties diligently and effectively. I also want to assure the public that the South West geopolitical zone will remain safe and all forms of crime and criminality will be dealt with adequately,” he said.

Fayoade emphasized that modern policing is increasingly reliant on technology-based strategies, and stressed that law enforcement agencies can no longer rely solely on conventional methods to deal with sophisticated criminal networks.

“Technology is the backbone of modern policing. When appropriate technology is applied, crime can be detected, solved and prevented effectively.”

“We are already doing this. Whatever crimes occur, we will utilize the technical expertise and technology at our disposal to ensure that these cases are solved in the shortest time possible,” he said.

Beyond operational tactics, the DIG underscored the importance of public trust in the police, arguing that effective law enforcement is only possible if the public trusts security agencies enough to share information.

“Building trust is important. Without trust, the public will be reluctant to partner with the police. The only way to build trust is through providing good and quality police services,” he said.

He urged officers to maintain professionalism, fairness and accountability in their interactions with the public.

“We must engage with the public sincerely and objectively, carry out our duties in a way that inspires confidence in the police, and avoid any actions that could undermine justice.”

“We must always be ready whenever there is a problem, respond immediately to resolve the problem, and provide feedback on how the problem will be resolved,” said Fayoade.

According to him, transparency in police operations will encourage the public to provide actionable intelligence that can prevent crime and improve public safety.

“By doing all these things transparently and sincerely, we will be able to build trust. When that trust is built, society will be willing to rely on us and provide important and credible information needed to fight crime, social crimes and various challenges facing society,” he added.

Earlier, the Commissioner of Police in Oyo State, Abimbola Olugbenga, highlighted the strategic importance of the state and reiterated the command’s commitment to intelligence-led security operations.

“Oyo State remains one of the most strategic states in the Federation, with its unique demographic, economic and security dynamics. Despite the challenges associated with policing in such a vast and dynamic state, the Command remains steadfast in its commitment to protect lives and property through intelligence-led policing, strategic stakeholder engagement, crime prevention initiatives and robust law enforcement operations,” Olugbenga said.

He expressed confidence that the DIG’s visit would further enhance cooperation between the police, stakeholders and citizens.

“We are very pleased that this visit will feature interactive lectures and interactions with Command officers and key stakeholders,” he said.

The Commissioner also commended community leaders and other stakeholders for their continued support of law enforcement activities across the state.

“To the distinguished stakeholders present, I express my appreciation for their cooperation and enduring partnership with the Nigerian Police. Security remains a shared responsibility, and their contributions will continue to play a vital role in maintaining peace, stability and development in Oyo State,” the commissioner added.

The new assurances come amid growing public concern over the safety of the abducted teachers and students, and security agencies stated that efforts were underway to secure their release and restore calm to the affected communities.