By Adesakin Adefemi
Residents of Igboho in Oyo State erupted in celebration on Saturday night after a kidnapped family, including a pregnant woman, her children and a sibling, were reportedly released following a two-hour ultimatum issued by Yoruba activist Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho.
Videos circulating on social media showed large crowds singing, dancing and chanting as news of the victims’ return spread through the community. The scenes captured relief and joy after days of tension over rising insecurity.
The development came after Igboho confronted suspected Fulani community leaders and traditional representatives in a viral video, expressing anger over alleged killings and abductions in the area. He specifically referenced an incident involving a pregnant woman and a ransom deal that reportedly turned deadly.
“The person who brought the ransom, you still killed him and spared only one person,” Igboho said, warning that such incidents must not repeat. He accused some members of the Fulani community of being behind the kidnappings plaguing Igboho town.
The activist then issued a stern two-hour ultimatum for the release of other abducted victims. He said he had exercised restraint following appeals from traditional rulers, but insisted the era of abductions must end.
“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,” he told the gathering. He warned that failure to comply would trigger decisive action, including entering suspected hideouts linked to the kidnappings.
Igboho’s warning raised tension across the area as residents awaited the outcome. The deadline created a stand-off, with community leaders reportedly intensifying negotiations to secure the victims’ freedom within the timeframe.
Following the expiration of the ultimatum, new videos showed jubilant residents celebrating what was described as the release of the abducted family. While details surrounding the exact circumstances of their freedom remain unclear, locals credited Igboho’s pressure for the breakthrough.
The incident has reignited debate over self-help security measures in rural communities battling kidnapping. As celebrations continued in Igboho, questions remain about long-term solutions to insecurity and the role of state authorities in protecting residents from repeated abductions.
