By The Metro 
Kidnappers holding schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State have reportedly demanded the amendment of state laws, a ₦1 billion ransom to be paid into a Benin Republic account, the release of their imprisoned members, and two Toyota Hilux vehicles as conditions for freeing their hostages.
The development was reportedly disclosed by the Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, who said the abductors had moved beyond financial demands to include ideological and political conditions.
According to the report, the kidnappers are also insisting on the amendment of laws in Oyo State as part of their negotiation terms, raising concerns that the case may be shifting from a conventional kidnapping incident into a broader ideological and security challenge.
The abductors are further said to have demanded additional items, including cash, vehicles, food supplies, and the release of detained suspects allegedly held in Oyo and Ibadan.
Specifically, the group is reportedly demanding ₦1 billion to be paid into a Republic of Benin bank account, two Hilux vehicles, and the release of arrested individuals they claim are linked to their network.
The abducted pupils and teachers were taken when armed men attacked schools in Oriire Local Government Area, Oyo State, triggering panic across affected communities and renewed concern over insecurity in the state.
Families of the victims have continued to appeal for urgent intervention, expressing anxiety over the safety and wellbeing of their loved ones still in captivity.
The prolonged detention has heightened tension in the area, with residents and community leaders calling for swift action to secure the release of the abductees.
The reported ideological demand has sparked debate among security analysts and political observers, who say it complicates possible negotiation efforts and raises questions about the evolving nature of kidnapping operations in the region.
Meanwhile, the Oyo State House of Assembly, on Wednesday, rejected suggestions and calls for the state government to negotiate with the bandits who abducted teachers and students during a coordinated attack at Ahoro-Esiele in Oriire Local Government Area of the state.
While Governor Seyi Makinde had earlier suggested openness to considering certain demands to secure the victims’ release, the House insisted instead on intensified rescue operations.
Security agencies are expected to intensify efforts as pressure mounts on authorities to ensure the safe return of the abducted schoolchildren and teachers.