Alleged Kidnappers Arrested in Ibadan as Sunday Igboho Commended for Assistance in Rescue Efforts

A number of suspected kidnappers were reportedly apprehended on Thursday following coordinated efforts involving Yoruba nation activist, Chief Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho, and security agencies.

According to information shared by sources familiar with the development, the suspects were arrested in connection with recent kidnapping activities in Oyo State. The operation reportedly took place around the Soka area along the Ojoo-Ibadan Toll Gate Expressway.

Sources disclosed that Sunday Igboho played a significant role in the operation, leading to the apprehension of some of the suspects and the recovery of firearms allegedly in their possession. It was gathered that some members of the gang escaped after reportedly identifying Igboho during the operation.

Speaking on the development, a source revealed that the activist had been in communication regarding the ongoing rescue efforts and confirmed that two AK-47 rifles recovered during the operation were handed over to the police at approximately 7:00 p.m. on Thursday.

The source further noted that the combined efforts of the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigerian Army, and the Western Nigeria Security Network, codenamed Amotekun, had significantly restricted the movement of suspected criminals within and around Ibadan.

According to the account, major routes leading into the city had been placed under heightened security surveillance since the kidnapping incident, making it difficult for the suspects to move freely. This development reportedly contributed to the success of the operation.

Authorities are yet to release an official statement detailing the identities of the suspects, the exact circumstances surrounding their arrest, or the extent of their involvement in the alleged crimes.

The arrests come amid growing calls for intensified security measures and collaborative efforts to combat kidnapping and other violent crimes across Oyo State and the South-West region.