Ransom Paid, Kwara Monarch Freed After 25 Days
A traditional ruler in Kwara State, the Ojibara of Bayagan Ile, Kamilu Salami, has regained his freedom after spending 25 days in the custody of armed bandits.
The monarch was abducted from his farm in Ifelodun Local Government Area and was released on Tuesday night, sparking widespread celebration across the community. Residents gathered at the palace to welcome the traditional ruler and express relief over his safe return.
Confirming the development on Wednesday, the community spokesperson, Ayinla Lawal, disclosed that the monarch was released after a substantial ransom was paid to the abductors in two instalments. He said the community decided not to reveal the exact amount paid.
According to Lawal, the ransom was raised entirely by community members, as neither the local nor state government provided financial assistance during the period of captivity. He noted that the difficulty in mobilising the funds contributed to the prolonged detention of the monarch.
Lawal revealed that the abductors initially rejected an earlier payment and demanded an additional sum before agreeing to release the monarch. Despite the challenges, he expressed gratitude that the traditional ruler returned alive.
Following his release, the monarch was taken to Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, on Wednesday morning for urgent medical evaluation.
The monarch’s younger brother, Aliyu, who played a key role in delivering the ransom, confirmed the release and described the ordeal as harrowing. He said the kidnappers operated from a remote and constantly changing location, making it difficult to identify them or trace their hideout.
Meanwhile, the community has intensified security efforts by engaging additional vigilantes and local hunters to prevent a recurrence. Residents who fled the area during the crisis are expected to return as normalcy gradually resumes.
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