Confusion has surrounded reports of the release of abducted victims in Igbope, Oorelope Local Government Area of Oyo State, after local authorities and the police denied claims that the captives had regained freedom.

The controversy followed a viral video showing residents celebrating alongside Yoruba Nation activist, Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho. The celebration was widely interpreted as marking the release of a woman, her children and a sibling who were reportedly kidnapped.

The victims were said to have been freed after Igboho allegedly issued a two-hour ultimatum to suspected kidnappers and Fulani community leaders. However, both the council chairman and the Oyo State Police Command have dismissed the reports, insisting that the true status of the abducted persons remains unclear.