Igboho's two‑hour ultimatum forces release of kidnapped victims in Oyo

By Adeola Badru

In Igboho, a community within Oorelope Local Government Area of Oyo State, residents erupted in celebration after a family that had been abducted by suspected kidnappers was released. The release came hours after Yoruba Nation activist Sunday Adeyemo issued a two‑hour ultimatum demanding the captives’ freedom.

The victims, reportedly including a pregnant woman, her children and a sibling, had been held for several days. Their return sparked jubilation throughout the town, with videos on social media showing residents flooding the streets, singing, and dancing in welcome.

The abduction had sparked widespread outrage when armed men raided the family’s home at midnight and demanded a large ransom. Initial demands were said to be N300 million, later reduced to N150 million during negotiations.

The situation escalated when reports emerged that a pregnant woman and a ransom bearer were killed, despite efforts to secure the victims’ release. These alleged killings prompted a strong reaction from Sunday Adeyemo, who accused criminal elements of turning Igboho into a kidnapping hotspot and vowed that such incidents would no longer be tolerated.

In a viral video addressed to Fulani community leaders and traditional representatives, the activist condemned the abductions and killings. “You can’t be kidnapping in my father’s land and expect me to keep quiet. I’m an original indigene of Igboho land,” he said.

He alleged that those responsible were known within the community and criticized local leaders for failing to curb criminal activity. Adeyemo also pointed to a pattern in the attacks, claiming that most victims were Yoruba residents.

Amid rising tension, the activist issued a two‑hour ultimatum, demanding the immediate release of the woman, her children and her sibling who had been kidnapped in the middle of the night. “If I don’t see them within the next two hours, we will face each other,” he warned.

He rejected calls for the victims’ relatives to pay the ransom, insisting that community members should work together to secure their release. Hours after the ultimatum expired, reports indicated that the victims had been freed, prompting celebrations across the town.

Residents who had anxiously awaited the outcome poured into the streets in scenes of relief and excitement, describing the development as a significant breakthrough in the fight against insecurity in the area.

The incident has reignited concerns over the growing threat of kidnapping in parts of Oyo State and renewed calls for security agencies to intensify efforts against criminal gangs operating in rural communities.

As of the time of filing this report, security authorities had yet to issue an official statement on the circumstances surrounding the victims’ release.

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