Kwara monarch regains freedom from bandits after heavy ransom, 25 days in captivity

Residents of Bayagan-Ile community in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, jubilated wildly on Tuesday following the release of their traditional ruler, Oba Kamilu Salami, by armed bandits.

He regained his freedom from bandits captivity after 25 days in their den, after he was kidnapped in his farm.

Elated residents of the community stormed the palace of the monarch following news of his release as they crowded to catch a glimpse of the monarch after his safe return.

Spokesman of the community, Ayinla Lawal, confirmed the development on Wednesday morning.

The community leader revealed that the monarch was set free after a huge amount of money, paid in two installments was delivered to the bandits.

“I’m happy to inform you that our monarch has been released, on Tuesday night.

“Our elders and members of the community have pleaded that we should not mention the amount, but it was huge. The local government and state government didn’t come to our rescue throughout our ordeal.

“Only members of the community contributed the amount. It was really tough for us in the community, and that was why it took longer time before our monarch was released.

“Above all, we thank Almighty God that he came back alive, and we also thank the media, and members of the community for their support,” the spokesman added.

The monarch’s immediate younger brother, simply identified as Aliyu, who drove the monarch to an undisclosed private hospital in Ilorin for medical treatment, also confirmed the development.

The community sent Aliyu to deliver the ransom on two installments to the bandits in their hideout.

Head of the Joint Security Watch, Kwara South Senatorial District, Zubair Olaitan, also confirmed the development on phone to DAILY POST on Wednesday, adding that “he has been reunited with his family since Tuesday.”

Efforts to reach the Spokesperson of the state police command, SP Adetoun Ejire Adeyemi, in Ilorin on Wednesday were unsuccessful at the time of this report.