Police Debunk Viral Claims of Rescued Igboho Kidnap Victims, Say Two Still in Captivity

The Oyo State Police Command has officially debunked widespread reports that kidnapping victims abducted in Igboho, Oorelope Local Government Area, have been released following a two-hour ultimatum issued by Yoruba Nation activist Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho.

In a statement released on Sunday, the command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, described the claims circulating online as false, unfounded, and misleading. “The Command wishes to state unequivocally that the claim contained in the circulated video is false, unfounded, and misleading,” Ayanlade said.

The police confirmed that two victims, identified as Mrs Kuburat Omowumi and her son, who were abducted on June 16, 2026, remain in captivity despite reports suggesting otherwise.

Ayanlade added that efforts are ongoing to secure their release and advised members of the public to verify information before believing it.

The controversy began when Igboho issued a two-hour ultimatum to Fulani leaders in the community, demanding the release of a pregnant woman, her children, and a sibling who were reportedly abducted during a midnight raid.

In a viral video, Igboho expressed outrage over allegations that a pregnant woman and a ransom bearer had been killed during negotiations. “You kidnapped a pregnant woman, and the person who brought the ransom, you killed him and killed the pregnant woman, for what? In Igboho? You people are not even afraid of me in my father’s land?” he said.

Igboho also rejected demands for ransom, insisting that Fulani residents should take responsibility for securing the victims’ release. “We don’t have any ransom to pay. You Fulanis should raise that ransom among yourselves and pay because we don’t have such money to pay,” he declared.

The Oorelope Local Government Chairman, Jacob Ogundiran, also refuted claims of the victims’ release, urging the public to disregard unofficial reports. “The kidnapped victims are yet to regain their freedom. We urge members of the public to disregard any information suggesting otherwise unless it emanates from official and credible sources,” he said.

As of Sunday, uncertainty surrounds the fate of the victims, with the police maintaining that investigations are ongoing and no operational link has been established between Igboho and any rescue operation. The command cautioned the public against relying on unverified social media reports and urged citizens to await official updates.