The Nigeria Police Force and authorities in a local government area of Oyo State have denied reports claiming that victims abducted by suspected kidnappers have been released following an ultimatum issued by Yoruba nation agitator Sunday Adeyemo.
The clarification came amid widespread reports and social media claims suggesting that the victims had regained their freedom after Igboho reportedly gave the abductors a deadline to release them.
However, police authorities stated that the information was inaccurate, stressing that the victims were still in captivity and that security agencies remained actively engaged in efforts to secure their rescue.
Local government officials also dismissed the reports of the victims’ release, urging members of the public to rely on verified information from relevant authorities rather than unconfirmed online claims.
The denial has renewed attention on the security challenges facing communities in Oyo State, where incidents of kidnapping and violent attacks have continued to raise concerns among residents and authorities.
The affected victims were among those abducted during a major attack that drew national outrage and prompted calls for intensified rescue operations.
Security agencies have maintained that ongoing intelligence gathering and coordinated operations are aimed at ensuring the safe return of the captives and the arrest of those responsible for the crime.
The controversy followed an ultimatum issued by Sunday Igboho, who warned the kidnappers to release the victims or face consequences. His intervention attracted widespread reactions from supporters who praised his involvement and critics who questioned the role of non-state actors in addressing security challenges.
The incident highlights the increasing public frustration over persistent cases of kidnapping and the growing demand for faster and more effective responses from security institutions.
Community leaders and civil society groups have continued to call for stronger security measures around schools and rural communities, noting that children and educators remain among the most vulnerable targets of criminal attacks.
Authorities have assured residents that they will continue their operations until the victims are safely recovered, while appealing for public cooperation and the provision of credible intelligence that could assist security efforts.
As the search continues, families of the abducted victims remain hopeful for their safe return, while Nigerians continue to monitor developments surrounding one of the latest high-profile kidnapping cases in the country.
