Residents of Igboho in Oyo State have erupted in celebration after a kidnapped family, including a pregnant woman, her children and a sibling, reportedly regained their freedom following a two-hour ultimatum issued by Yoruba Nation activist, Sunday Igboho.
Videos making the rounds online captured emotional scenes as residents sang, danced and rejoiced over the reported release of the victims.
The development comes days after Igboho issued a strong warning to suspected Fulani leaders and community representatives in the area over rising cases of kidnapping and insecurity.
Speaking in a viral video, the activist expressed anger over reports of abductions and killings allegedly linked to criminal elements operating in the area.
“The person who brought the ransom, you still killed him and spared only one person. I am Sunday Igboho. I am calm because my fathers asked me to be calm with you. Let this be the last time such a thing will happen.”
Igboho also demanded the immediate release of the abducted victims, giving a two-hour deadline and warning that failure to comply could lead to further action.
He further accused some criminal elements of turning parts of the area into hideouts and vowed that such activities would no longer be tolerated.
“I am giving you two hours to release the woman and the children you kidnapped overnight at their residence. Once we rescue those children, we must not see any of them in this bush.”
Following the ultimatum, residents were seen celebrating what many described as a victory for the community, as videos showed large crowds welcoming the reportedly freed victims.
The reported release has brought relief to residents of Igboho, although concerns still remain over the growing security challenges facing communities across the country.
