There was jubilation in Igboho, Oyo State, on Saturday after a kidnapped family—including a pregnant woman, her children, and a sibling—was reportedly released following a two-hour ultimatum issued by Yoruba nation activist, Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho.
Residents trooped out in large numbers, singing, dancing, and celebrating the victims’ return. Videos circulating on social media captured the excitement, with community members describing the release as a relief after days of tension.
The development came shortly after Igboho issued a stern warning over rising cases of kidnapping and insecurity in Igboho and surrounding communities. In an earlier viral video, he addressed traditional leaders, community representatives, and security stakeholders, expressing anger over alleged killings and abductions in the area.
Igboho accused suspected criminal elements of terrorising residents and recalled previous incidents where ransom payments were made but victims or ransom bearers were still killed.
“I am Sunday Igboho. I am calm because my fathers asked me to be calm with you. Let this be the last time such a thing will happen,” he declared in the video.
He further warned that he would not remain passive while his community continued to live in fear, insisting that decisive action would follow if the kidnappings persisted.
While the victims’ release has been widely celebrated, the exact circumstances remain unclear. It is not yet known whether a ransom was paid or if security agencies played a direct role in securing their freedom.
The incident has once again drawn attention to worsening insecurity in parts of Oyo State, where residents have repeatedly raised concerns about kidnappings and violent attacks. Security authorities are expected to provide further details on the case and the conditions surrounding the victims’ release.
