A family abducted by suspected kidnappers in Igboho, Oyo State, has regained freedom hours after Yoruba Nation activist, Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho, issued a two-hour ultimatum demanding their release.
The victims, who reportedly included a pregnant woman, her children and another relative, were said to have been kidnapped from their residence in the Igboho area of Oke-Ogun, Oyo State, in the early hours of Friday.
The incident sparked outrage within the community, prompting Sunday Igboho to convene a meeting with Fulani leaders and residents at the palace of the town’s monarch on Saturday.
During the gathering, the activist accused criminal elements of turning the area into a hotspot for kidnappings and warned that the situation would no longer be tolerated.
“I am giving you two hours to release the woman and the children you kidnapped overnight at their residence,” Igboho declared while addressing the gathering.
He further warned that failure to comply could lead to a confrontation with those responsible for the abduction.
Reports indicated that the abductors had initially demanded a ransom running into hundreds of millions of naira before later reducing the amount.
Igboho, however, insisted that the victims’ family would not pay any ransom and challenged community leaders to ensure the safe return of those held captive.
A video that later surfaced online showed the released victims surrounded by residents after regaining their freedom, bringing relief to family members and community leaders who had expressed concern over their safety.
Speaking during his address, Igboho condemned the growing wave of kidnappings in the area, stating that innocent residents could not continue to live in fear.
According to reports, the victims were released shortly after the ultimatum expired, although details surrounding the circumstances of their release remain unclear.
Security agencies have yet to provide a comprehensive account of the operation or confirm whether any arrests were made in connection with the abduction.
The development has generated widespread reactions across Oyo State, with many residents expressing relief over the safe return of the family while calling on authorities to intensify efforts against kidnapping and other violent crimes in the region.