Authorities insist abducted family remains in captivity despite viral celebration video
Confusion has trailed reports of the alleged release of kidnapped victims in Igbope, Oorelope Local Government Area of Oyo State, as both the local council authority and the Oyo State Police Command have firmly denied the claims.
The controversy followed the circulation of a viral video showing residents celebrating alongside Yoruba Nation activist, Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho.
The jubilation was widely interpreted as a confirmation that the abducted victims a woman, her children, and a sibling had regained their freedom.
The victims were reportedly kidnapped during a midnight attack by armed men, who initially demanded a ransom of ₦300 million, later reduced to ₦150 million.
Amid rising tension, Igboho had issued a two-hour ultimatum to suspected kidnappers and leaders within the Fulani community, demanding the immediate release of the victims and warning of decisive action if his demands were not met.
However, in a statement released on Sunday, the Chairman of Oorelope Local Government, Jacob Ogundiran, dismissed the reports of the victims’ release as false and misleading.
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According to him, “The attention of the Oorelope Local Government has been drawn to circulating rumours claiming that the kidnapped victims have been released.
We state categorically that these reports are untrue. The victims are still in captivity, and the public should disregard any unverified information.”
Ogundiran further assured residents that security agencies are intensifying efforts to secure the safe release of the victims, while commending community members for their cooperation and support.
Similarly, the spokesperson for the Oyo State Police Command, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, also debunked claims linking Igboho to any successful rescue operation.
He clarified that the victims have not been freed and emphasized that ongoing efforts are being made by security operatives to ensure their rescue.
He also noted that the kidnapping incident occurred in Igbope, not Igboho as widely reported in some quarters.
Despite the official denials, the viral video continues to generate mixed reactions, with many questioning the authenticity of the celebrations and the true situation on ground.
Authorities have urged the public to rely only on verified information and avoid spreading unconfirmed reports that could further heighten tension in the area.
Security operations remain ongoing as efforts intensify to bring the perpetrators to justice and secure the safe return of the victims.
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