Authorities in Oyo State have denied reports circulating on social media that victims abducted in Igbope, Oorelope Local Government Area, have regained their freedom following an ultimatum issued by Yoruba Nation activist, Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho.
The speculation emerged after a viral video showed residents celebrating alongside Igboho, leading many to believe that a kidnapped woman, her children, and a relative had been released from captivity.
However, the Chairman of Oorelope Local Government, Jacob Ogundiran, dismissed the claims, describing them as inaccurate and misleading. He stressed that the victims remain in the custody of their abductors and urged the public to rely only on verified information from official sources.
Ogundiran assured residents that security agencies are actively working to secure the safe release of the captives. He also commended community members and local stakeholders for supporting rescue efforts through intelligence sharing and cooperation.
The Oyo State Police Command also refuted reports linking the victims’ alleged release to Igboho’s intervention. Police spokesperson, Olayinka Ayanlade, stated that the victims are still being held and that security operatives are continuing rescue operations.
He further clarified that the kidnapping did not occur in Igboho town as widely reported but in Igbope community, where gunmen reportedly abducted members of a family during a late-night attack.
According to reports, the kidnappers initially demanded a ransom of ₦300 million before reducing the amount to ₦150 million.
The controversy followed Igboho’s recent warning to suspected Fulani leaders in the area over rising incidents of kidnapping and insecurity. During a meeting with community representatives and traditional rulers, the activist condemned the attacks and issued a two-hour ultimatum for the release of abducted persons.
In a video that later went viral, Igboho expressed frustration over alleged killings and abductions in the area, warning that he would take further action if the victims were not released.
Despite the celebrations captured in the viral footage, both local government officials and the police have maintained that no rescue or release has occurred, emphasizing that efforts to secure the victims’ freedom remain ongoing.
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