One week after Yoruba Nation activist Chief Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho, launched a mission to rescue kidnapped victims in Igboho, Oyo State, reports indicate the operation has encountered setbacks and controversy.
According to The Nation, Igboho issued a two-hour ultimatum demanding the release of victims allegedly abducted in Igbope before leading more than 40 men, local hunters and vigilantes into the Old Oyo National Park after efforts to track the kidnappers reportedly stalled. Police and local authorities also dismissed online claims that the victims had been rescued, insisting they remained in captivity.
A source close to the operation said Igboho became discouraged on Monday after a traditional ruler from his hometown gave an interview to an international media organisation suggesting the rescue mission had been unsuccessful and that the kidnappers were still demanding a N150 million ransom.
“At a point on Monday… an angry Igboho was demoralised by a comment made by one of the traditional rulers in his hometown,” the source said, adding that the activist felt the remarks failed to appreciate his efforts.
Despite the setback, Igboho reportedly vowed to continue the search, later visiting Kishi and Igbeti, where the kidnappers were believed to have moved the victims.
