The Oyo state Police Command has dismissed reports suggesting that the kidnap victims from Igbope, Oorelope Local Government Area of Oyo State have regained their freedom.
This has created confusion regarding the fate of victims abducted as the local council chairman also debunked claims of their release.
The claims comes following a video making rounds on social media on Saturday showing large crowds of residents celebration and jubilating with Yoruba Nation activist Sunday Igboho.
Furthermore, residents celebrated the release of the victims—a woman, her children, and a sibling—with scenes of jubilation across the community.
According to reports, the kidnappers released the victims after Sunday Igboho issued a two-hour ultimatum to suspected abductors and Fulani community leaders, demanding their freedom.
However, in latest development, both local and state authorities have refuted these reports.
In a statement on Sunday, the Oorelope Local Government Chairman, Jacob Ogundiran, described the claims as false and misleading.
The statement reads, “The attention of the Oorelope Local Government Area leadership has been drawn to circulating rumours and unverified reports claiming the release of the kidnapping victims.
“We state authoritatively that these reports are false and misleading. The victims are still in captivity, and we urge the public to discountenance any information to the contrary unless it comes from credible sources.”
Additionally, the Oyo State Police Command spokesperson, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, debunked reports that the that Sunday Igboho played any role in their rescue.
The police further clarified that the abduction happened in Igbope and not in Igboho
BACKSTORY…
Previous reports revealed that residents of Igboho community in Oyo State celebrated yesterday after a kidnapped family, including a pregnant woman, her children and a sibling, regained their following a two-hour ultimatum issued by Yoruba activist, Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho.
A video making rounds on social media captured large crowds of residents singing, dancing and celebrating the return of the victims.
Meanwhile, the development comes after Igboho had earlier issued a firm warning to suspected Fulani community leaders in the area over a surge of kidnapping and insecurity.
Addressing community representatives and traditional leaders, Sunday Igboho expressed visbile anger over alleged killings and abductions in the area.
He also accused some members of the Fulani community of kidnapping residents and referenced the case involving a pregnant woman and ransom negotiations that reportedly turned deadly.
