The family of Michael Oyedokun, a Mathematics teacher abducted and killed by kidnappers in Oyo State, says they are still struggling to recover from the tragedy.
Speaking in an emotional interview, Samuel Oyedokun, the deceased’s elder brother who lives in the United States, described Michael as a humble and dedicated family man whose death has left relatives devastated.
According to him, Michael was born on September 26, 1968, and was approaching his 58th birthday before his life was cut short. He explained that the late teacher was married with two sons and had spent years serving in Oyo State’s education sector, eventually rising to the position of Vice Principal.
Samuel recalled that he once encouraged his younger brother to relocate abroad but Michael chose to remain in Nigeria after securing a government teaching job. He said the deceased was satisfied with his life and career and never showed desperation to leave the country.
Narrating how the family learnt about the incident, Samuel said he first saw reports online about attacks on schools in Oyo State and immediately recognised his brother’s school from photographs circulating on social media. Alarmed, he contacted family members and discovered Michael had not returned home from work, which relatives described as highly unusual.
He stated that the family initially believed the abductors would demand ransom, but no communication came from the kidnappers. Samuel said the silence raised fears about Michael’s safety.
The grieving brother also spoke about the emotional impact of later seeing evidence of the killing, saying the experience continues to haunt him daily. He added that the tragedy has deeply affected Michael’s wife, children, and elderly relatives.
According to him, the deceased’s two sons are currently sitting for their secondary school examinations while trying to cope with the trauma of losing their father.
Samuel criticised the country’s security situation, lamenting that many families now live in fear due to repeated kidnappings and attacks. He questioned why stronger measures had not been taken to confront criminal groups terrorising communities.
He further called on authorities to intensify rescue efforts for other victims reportedly still being held captive after the attack. He said recovering Michael’s body would also provide some relief to the family, stressing the cultural importance many Yoruba families place on giving loved ones a proper burial.
The family acknowledged receiving condolence visits from Oyo State officials, though Samuel expressed doubts about whether the government’s response would go beyond symbolic gestures.
He concluded by urging authorities to adopt more effective strategies against insecurity and ensure that remaining abductees are rescued safely.
