“Oyo Principal’s Husband Reveals Why He Blocked Kidnappers During Wife’s 50-Day Captivity”

“Oyo Principal’s Husband Reveals Why He Blocked Kidnappers During Wife’s 50 Day Captivity”

Professor Wole Alamu, husband of abducted Oyo State school principal Rachael Alamu, has explained why he eventually blocked the phone numbers used by the kidnappers during negotiations for his wife’s release.

Speaking at a thanksgiving service following Rachael Alamu’s release after more than 50 days in captivity, Professor Alamu said repeated threats from the abductors had begun to seriously affect his physical and emotional wellbeing. According to him, the pressure of communicating with the kidnappers contributed to health challenges, including high blood pressure.

He said the decision to block the numbers came after the constant threats became overwhelming, highlighting the intense psychological and physical pressure often faced by families negotiating the release of loved ones held by armed groups.

Rachael Alamu, principal of Community High School, Ahoro-Esinle, in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, was abducted alongside teachers and students during an attack on schools in the area on May 15, 2026. During the prolonged captivity, her husband had previously disclosed that the abductors were unwilling to negotiate directly with the family and instead sought communication with government authorities.

The abduction drew significant public concern and renewed attention to the security challenges facing schools and rural communities in parts of Nigeria. The eventual release of the victims brought relief to their families, although the incident also underscored the human cost of prolonged hostage situations and the difficult decisions families are forced to make during negotiations with criminal groups.

Professor Alamu’s account provides further insight into the personal toll of the crisis, particularly on relatives who remain responsible for maintaining communication with abductors while navigating threats, uncertainty and fear for the safety of their loved ones.