According to reports, the freed abductees arrived late Thursday evening and were initially received at the Nigerian Army’s 2 Division, Sobi Barracks, prior to being transferred to a secure location.

The incident stems from a coordinated assault on February 3, 2026, when armed insurgents raided the Woro and Nuku communities, resulting in significant casualties, widespread destruction of property, and the mass abduction of residents, predominantly women and children. State officials confirmed that the rescued individuals received necessary medical evaluations and care following their release.

Speaking during an interview on TVC’s Beyond the Headlines, Ihunwo explained that his shift in stance is purely a response to Governor Fubara’s call for peace, reconciliation, and unity across the state.

“You are aware that my principal is the Governor of Rivers State, and he has said there is peace in Rivers State and that we need to move on as a state. If we truly support him, we should join him in the Rainbow Coalition,” Ihunwo stated.

Standing by Past Actions and Looking Forward

Addressing criticisms regarding his previous heavy rhetoric against Wike’s camp during the height of the political crisis, Ihunwo maintained that political dynamics evolve and that his core loyalty to Fubara remains absolute. He stressed that he harbours no regrets for defending the governor when he served as youth leader, noting that his past actions were necessary at the time.

Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, Ihunwo emphasized that he will collaborate with Wike’s supporters within Obio/Akpor solely to ensure the success of the governor’s peace mandate, prioritizing state stability over personal ambition.

According to reports, the 30-year-old striker was charged on July 31 in connection with an event reported on Wardour Street in Soho on December 6, 2025. He is slated to make a court appearance at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on September 24.

A representative for the player released a statement addressing the development:

“Ivan acknowledges the charge and although he is naturally shocked, he looks forward to being given the opportunity to clear his name in court.”

Career Background and International Status

The upcoming court date falls just a couple of days prior to England’s scheduled UEFA Nations League fixture against Spain at Wembley Stadium, creating uncertainty regarding his future squad availability.

Toney recently featured in Thomas Tuchel’s England setup for the FIFA World Cup, making a substitute appearance in the semi-final against Argentina and starting in the third-place play-off win against France. At the club level, the striker moved to the Saudi Pro League side Al Ahli from Brentford in August 2024 following a prolific spell in the English top-flight where he netted 72 goals in 141 total appearances for the Bees.