By Ibrahim Kegbegbe
Residents of Igboho town in Oyo State have expressed relief following the rescue of abducted victims after a series of efforts reportedly spearheaded by Yoruba Nation agitator, Oloye Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho.
The development came days after tension gripped the ancient town over the abduction of some residents by suspected kidnappers, an incident that heightened fears among community members and renewed concerns over rising insecurity in parts of Oyo State.
Before the victims regained their freedom, Sunday Igboho had issued a two-hour ultimatum to Fulani residents in the town, demanding the immediate release of the abducted persons and the identification of those behind the crime. In a viral video, the activist vowed that the community would no longer tolerate criminal activities and warned that those responsible would be held accountable.
Sources in the community confirmed that the kidnapped victims were eventually rescued, bringing joy to families and residents who had anxiously awaited their safe return. Details surrounding the rescue operation and whether any arrests were made were still sketchy at the time of filing this report.
The incident once again brought Sunday Igboho to the centre of security discussions in the South-West. The activist rose to prominence in 2021 following his campaign against kidnapping and violent crimes allegedly perpetrated by criminal elements operating in the region. His activities, particularly in Igangan and other parts of Oyo State, sparked national debates over self-help, community policing and the responsibilities of security agencies.
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In recent years, residents of Oyo and neighbouring states have repeatedly raised concerns over incidents of kidnapping, armed robbery and attacks on farmers. Security experts have stressed the need for greater collaboration between conventional security agencies, local vigilantes and community leaders to tackle the menace.
Community leaders in Igboho have commended all those involved in securing the victims’ freedom and called on the Federal Government and security agencies to intensify efforts to rid the area of criminal elements.
They also urged residents to remain vigilant and continue providing useful information to law enforcement agencies, stressing that sustainable peace and security require collective responsibility.
As normalcy gradually returns to the town, many residents hope the latest incident will serve as a wake-up call for authorities to strengthen security architecture and prevent a recurrence of such attacks in Oyo State and across the South-West region.
