NEWS
Oyo Police Debunk Claims Linking Sunday Igboho to Alleged Release of Kidnap Victims
The Oyo State Police Command has firmly dismissed widespread reports suggesting that Yoruba Nation activist, Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho, was responsible for the alleged release of kidnapped victims in Igboho community, located in Oorelope Local Government Area of Oyo State.
The clarification comes amid growing public speculation and excitement following the circulation of viral videos and social media posts claiming that the abducted family members had regained their freedom shortly after Igboho issued a stern ultimatum to their captors.
Reacting to the reports, the police authorities maintained that there is currently no official confirmation that the victims have been rescued. The Command also stressed that there is no evidence linking Sunday Igboho to any successful intervention or operation connected to the kidnapping incident.
“The Nigeria Police Force has officially debunked claims that the hostages have been safely released,” the command said, adding that the Oyo State Commissioner of Police had not confirmed Igboho’s involvement in any operation.
The controversy erupted after reports emerged that a woman, her children, and a relative were abducted during a midnight invasion by heavily armed men who stormed the community and whisked away their victims.
The incident sparked fear and outrage among residents, particularly after reports indicated that the kidnappers demanded a staggering ransom.
According to accounts from the community, the criminals initially demanded ₦300 million before allegedly reducing the amount to N₦150 million during ongoing negotiations.
Public attention intensified when Sunday Igboho, known for his outspoken stance on security issues affecting the South-West region, released videos condemning the persistent wave of kidnappings and criminal activities in the area.
In the widely circulated videos, the activist issued a two-hour ultimatum demanding the immediate release of the abducted victims. He further warned that he would take action if the captors failed to comply within the stipulated period.
Shortly after the ultimatum expired, several unverified reports surfaced online claiming that the kidnapped family members had been freed. The reports quickly spread across social media platforms, triggering celebrations and emotional reactions from residents and supporters who believed the victims had regained their freedom.
However, despite the widespread excitement, security authorities insist that such claims remain unsubstantiated.
The situation became even more alarming amid conflicting reports suggesting that a pregnant woman and a ransom courier may have lost their lives during the crisis. While these reports have heightened public anxiety and concern, authorities have yet to provide official confirmation regarding the claims.
Addressing the growing confusion, the spokesperson of the Oyo State Police Command, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, reiterated that the reports circulating online remain unverified and should not be regarded as official information.
The Command emphasized that investigations into the incident are ongoing and urged members of the public to rely only on verified information from security agencies rather than social media speculation.
As of the time of filing this report, uncertainty continues to surround the fate of the abducted family, with conflicting narratives emerging from local sources and online platforms. The absence of official confirmation regarding either the victims’ release or Sunday Igboho’s involvement has left many residents anxiously awaiting definitive updates from the authorities.
The incident once again highlights the growing security concerns in parts of Oyo State and the increasing challenge posed by kidnapping activities, which have continued to generate fear among residents and calls for stronger security measures across affected communities.