Confusion mounts over the fate of Mrs. Kuburat Omowumi and her son, who were abducted on June 16, 2026, in Igbope, Oyo State, as authorities flatly denied viral social media reports claiming their freedom.

The Oyo State Police Command and Oorelope Local Government Chairman, Jacob Ogundiran, issued separate statements on Sunday declaring that the victims remain in captivity. They urged the public to disregard a trending video that sparked premature celebrations across the region.

The Viral Video and Premature Celebrations

The controversy erupted after a video circulated online on Saturday showing crowds singing and dancing alongside Yoruba Nation activist Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho. Online commentators claimed the jubilation celebrated the rescue of Omowumi and her son, allegedly prompted by a strict two-hour ultimatum issued by Igboho to suspected kidnappers and local Fulani leaders.

State Authorities React

The state police command strongly rebuffed the video, warning that fake news threatens real-world rescue efforts.

Oyo State Police Public Relations Officer, Olayinka Ayanlade, stated:"The command wishes to state unequivocally that the claim contained in the circulated video is false, unfounded, and misleading. The circulation of unverified information at this critical period is capable of creating false narratives, generating unnecessary confusion, and undermining ongoing rescue efforts."

Ayanlade added that tactical and intelligence teams are working closely with sister security agencies to secure the victims safely.

Local Government Chairman Jacob Ogundiran echoed the police stance, confirming that local leadership is monitoring the situation."We state authoritatively that these reports are false and misleading," Ogundiran said. "The victims are still in captivity, and we urge the public to discountenance any information to the contrary unless it comes from credible sources."

Ultimatums and Ransom Demands

The mother and son were taken during a midnight raid by heavily armed gunmen. Sources indicate the abductors initially demanded a ₦300 million ransom, which was later negotiated down to ₦150 million.

The incident triggered a fierce reaction from Igboho, who openly challenged suspected Fulani community leaders over the spike in regional insecurity. In an earlier footage, the activist referenced previous botched ransom deliveries and killings, warning of direct intervention if local hideouts were not cleared of criminal elements.

Security agencies have asked residents with actionable intelligence to step forward, reiterating that official channels remain the only credible source for updates on the active operation.