Kidnapped Family Regains Freedom in Oyo After Sunday Igboho Issues Two-Hour Ultimatum

Residents of Igboho in Oyo State celebrated the return of a kidnapped family on Saturday. The group included a pregnant woman, her children, and a sibling.

The release followed a two-hour ultimatum issued by Yoruba Nation activist Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho. He addressed community leaders and traditional rulers in a viral video.

Igboho expressed outrage over rising kidnappings and insecurity in the area. He referenced a recent case involving a pregnant woman. According to him, a ransom bearer was killed while one victim was spared.

“You cannot be kidnapping people in our land,” Igboho stated. He warned that such acts would no longer be tolerated.

The activist accused suspected Fulani elements of involvement in the abductions. He gave community representatives a two-hour deadline to secure the victims' release.

“I am calm because my fathers asked me to be calm with you,” Igboho said. “Let this be the last time such a thing will happen.”

He added that failure to comply would lead to decisive action. This included operations targeting locations linked to the kidnappings.

Reports indicate the victims were freed without ransom payment after the deadline. Videos shared online showed jubilant residents singing and dancing in welcome.

The exact circumstances of the release remain unclear. However, the development brought relief to the community.

This incident occurs against a backdrop of broader insecurity in Oyo State. Earlier cases, including schoolchildren abductions, have heightened tensions.

Reactions on X (formerly Twitter) reflected mixed views. Some praised Igboho’s intervention as swift community action. Others raised concerns about vigilantism and ethnic rhetoric.

Local authorities have noted the events. Police have launched probes into related kidnapping incidents in the region.

Igboho has positioned himself as a defender against insecurity in his hometown. His actions continue to draw attention amid debates on self-help security measures.

Community members expressed gratitude for the victims' safe return. The celebrations highlighted deep local frustration with persistent abductions.

As Oyo grapples with these challenges, the episode underscores ongoing efforts to address banditry. Stakeholders call for sustained collaboration between residents, leaders, and security forces.