Owoade, who is also a farmer, was abducted along the Igbojaye–Budo Aare bush road on Saturday, July 11, 2026. Following his abduction, the kidnappers reportedly contacted his family and demanded a ransom of N30 million for his release.
Confirming his release in a statement on Monday night, July 13, 2026, the spokesperson for the Oyo State Police Command, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, said security operatives immediately launched a coordinated operation after receiving reports of the abduction.
According to Olayinka, sustained pressure from the joint security operation forced the kidnappers to abandon the victim.
“The Oyo State Police Command wishes to update members of the public on the earlier press release issued on 13 July 2026 regarding the abduction of a farmer, Mr. Matthew Owoade, who was kidnapped along the Igbojaye–Budo Aare bush road in Oyo State on 12 July 2026,” the statement read.
“Following the immediate deployment of a coordinated joint security operation and sustained investigative efforts by the Command, the intense operational pressure mounted on the abductors forced the hoodlums to abandon the victim, who regained his freedom on the evening of 13 July 2026.
“The victim has since been taken to a medical facility for evaluation and necessary treatment.
“Upon completion of medical attention, he will be debriefed by investigators as part of the ongoing investigation aimed at identifying, apprehending, and prosecuting all those responsible for the criminal act.
“The Commissioner of Police, Oyo State Command, CP Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, psc, mnips, appreciates the unwavering support and cooperation of other security agencies, community members, and all well-meaning citizens throughout the operation.
“He reassures residents that the Command remains resolute in its commitment to protecting lives and property and ensuring that criminal elements have no safe haven in Oyo State.
“The Command further urges members of the public to remain vigilant and continue to provide timely and credible information that will aid ongoing security operations.”
