The Oyo State Police Command has dismissed as false and misleading reports circulating on social media that victims abducted at Igbope in Oorelope Local Government Area of the state had been rescued.

The Command said the claim, contained in a viral video and related online posts, was unfounded and capable of creating confusion while efforts to secure the release of the victims were still ongoing.

The victims, identified as Mrs Kuburat Omowumi and her son, were abducted on June 16, 2026.

In a statement issued on Sunday, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, said the Command had intensified intelligence-led and operational efforts in collaboration with other security agencies and stakeholders to secure the safe rescue of the victims and apprehend those behind the abduction.

“The Oyo State Police Command has taken notice of a video and related online content alleging that the victims abducted at Igbope on June 16, 2026, have been rescued.

“The Command wishes to state unequivocally that the claim contained in the circulated video is false, unfounded, and misleading,” the statement read.

According to the police, the dissemination of unverified information at such a sensitive period could generate false narratives, create unnecessary panic, and undermine ongoing rescue operations.

The Command appealed to residents and members of the public with credible information relating to the incident to assist security agencies by providing useful intelligence that could aid the operation.

It also urged citizens to rely on official channels for updates and verify information before sharing it on social media.

The police reaction followed widespread celebrations in Igboho community after reports emerged that a kidnapped family, including a pregnant woman, her children and a sibling, had regained their freedom following a two-hour ultimatum allegedly issued by Yoruba Nation agitator, Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho.

Videos circulating online showed residents singing, dancing and celebrating what was described as the release of the abductees.

The development came after another viral video showed Igboho addressing community representatives and traditional leaders over recurring cases of kidnapping and insecurity in the area.

In the video, he accused some members of the Fulani community of involvement in abductions and expressed concern over incidents in which ransom payments allegedly failed to secure the freedom of victims.

He was also seen issuing a two-hour ultimatum for the release of abducted persons, warning that further action would be taken if the victims were not freed.

However, despite the celebrations and claims circulating online, the police maintained that there was no official confirmation that the victims had been rescued.

The Command reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safe return of the abductees and sustaining efforts to protect lives and property across the state.

It urged residents to remain calm, cooperate with security agencies and avoid spreading unverified information capable of jeopardising ongoing operations.