Police Reject Claims of Igboho's Involvement
The Oyo State Police Command has officially dismissed social media reports and viral videos suggesting that Yoruba Nation activist Sunday Adeyemo, widely known as Sunday Igboho, played any role in the alleged rescue of kidnapped victims in the Igboho community, Oorelope Local Government Area of Oyo State. The Command stated that there is no official confirmation that the abducted family has been rescued, nor any evidence linking Igboho to intervention in the matter.
Official Statement from Police
"The Nigeria Police Force has officially debunked claims that the hostages have been safely released," the Command said in a statement. It added that the Oyo State Commissioner of Police had not confirmed Igboho's involvement in any operation. The clarification follows public excitement sparked by claims that a woman, her children, and a relative—abducted during a midnight raid by armed men—had been freed shortly after Igboho issued a two-hour ultimatum demanding their release.
Background of the Abduction Incident
The abduction had earlier thrown the community into distress after armed men reportedly invaded the area at night, abducted members of a family, and demanded a ransom initially pegged at ₦300 million before allegedly reducing it to ₦150 million during negotiations. Tension escalated further amid conflicting claims that a pregnant woman and a ransom courier may have been killed during the incident, deepening public concern.
Igboho's Ultimatum and Public Reaction
In widely shared videos, Igboho condemned the rising wave of kidnappings in the region and issued stern warnings to those he accused of harboring criminal elements. Shortly after his ultimatum, unverified online reports claimed the captives had regained freedom, prompting celebrations and emotional reactions among residents. However, the Oyo State Police Command maintained its position, with spokesperson DSP Olayinka Ayanlade reiterating that the circulating reports remain unverified and should not be treated as official.
Uncertainty Remains
As of the time of reporting, uncertainty still surrounds the fate of the abducted family, with conflicting accounts persisting across both local and online platforms. The police urge the public to rely on official channels for accurate information.
