A 12-year-old schoolgirl was reportedly kidnapped on Thursday morning, February 12, 2026, in the Challenge area of Ibadan, the state capital.
According to the Oyo State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, the incident occurred at around 7:20 a.m. as the girl was alighting from a vehicle conveying her to school. Police described the case as a suspected kidnapping and confirmed that it was immediately reported to the command. Detectives were promptly deployed, and witnesses are being interviewed to aid the investigation.
Authorities stated that the girl’s parents have been contacted and are cooperating closely with the police. Efforts are ongoing to ensure the safe rescue of the victim and the arrest of those responsible. The police have launched a comprehensive, intelligence-driven investigation and have urged members of the public to provide any information that could assist in tracing the girl.
At this stage, officials have not disclosed any details about potential suspects, ransom demands, or the current whereabouts of the girl.
This incident adds to growing security concerns in Oyo State, which has recently witnessed various reports of kidnappings and other violent crimes in the region.
The Oyo State Police Command has assured residents of maximum vigilance and pledged to bring the perpetrators to justice.
