A traditional ruler in Kwara State, the Oniwo of Afin, Oba Simeon Olanipekun, has regained his freedom after his family reportedly paid an additional ₦12 million ransom to bandits who abducted him.
The monarch was released on Wednesday night after spending about one month in captivity. His freedom came two weeks after his son, Olaolu, who was kidnapped alongside him, was released following the payment of an earlier ₦20 million ransom.
A family source, who spoke on condition of anonymity in Ilorin on Thursday, confirmed that sustained negotiations eventually led to the monarch’s release.
“It is true the monarch was released on Wednesday night after we paid ₦12 million and two power banks in addition to the initial ₦20 million ransom. They dropped him at a local herders’ settlement around Oreke in Ifelodun Local Government Area. From there, he was taken to the military base in Oreke, where they contacted us,” the source said.
According to the source, Oba Olanipekun is currently receiving medical attention at an undisclosed hospital after suffering physical and psychological trauma during his ordeal.
“He is in high spirits now. The family and the entire Afin community are grateful to everyone who played a role in ensuring his release,” the source added.
The monarch, popularly known as Aniwo I of Afin community in the Ile-Ire District of Ifelodun Local Government Area, was abducted on New Year’s Eve during a violent attack on his palace.
It was gathered that about eight armed men stormed the palace around 8:00 p.m., firing sporadically before abducting the monarch and his son.
The release of the traditional ruler has brought relief to residents of Afin and neighbouring communities, who had lived in fear since the incident.
The abduction is one of several recent kidnapping cases in Kwara State, heightening concerns over rising insecurity, particularly in rural areas. Community leaders and residents have continued to call on security agencies and the state government to intensify efforts to curb criminal activities across the state.
Hammed Shittu
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