Kidnapped Kwara monarch regains freedom after days in captivity

Relief has come to Bayagan Ile community in Kwara State as the Ojibara of Bayagan Ile, Alhaji Kamilu Salami, who was kidnapped by bandits nearly a month ago, has finally regained his freedom.

The traditional ruler was abducted 25 days ago while working on his farm on a Saturday morning, an incident that threw the community into fear and uncertainty. His release was confirmed on Tuesday night, bringing an end to weeks of anxiety for residents and his family.

The monarch was said to have gone through a difficult period while in captivity. His release has sparked widespread joy in the community, with residents expressing happiness and relief over his safe return.

The palace was reportedly bombarded with jubilant residents,who crowded to catch a glimpse of their monarch,and more importantly congratulate him and the family for safe return to the palace.

Spokesperson of the community, Ayinla Lawal confirmed the development in a message to TheLeader Wednesday morning.

Ayinla told TheLeader in an interview that the monarch was released after huge amount of money, paid in two installments was paid to the bandits.

He also told TheLeader that only the community raked the huge amount demanded by the bandits before the release of the monarch.

According to him,”I’m happy to inform you that our monarch has been released,he was released on Tuesday night.

“Our elders and members of the community have pleaded that we should not mention the amount,so I won’t be able to tell you 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.”

Ayinla who expressed confident that the bandits won’t strike again in the community ,said more Vigilantes and hunters have been recruited to keep vigil on the community.

He also believed that with these developments, residents who fled the community would start returning to the community.

He also said that the monarch,has been brought to Ilorin Wednesday morning for urgent medical attention.

Monarch’s immediate younger brother, simply identified as Aliyu who drove the monarch to an undisclosed private hospital in ilorin also confirmed the development to this newspaper Wednesday morning in an interview.

Aliyu who the community sent to pay the ransom on the two installments said he was scared at a point to visit the bandits because of the fear of being kidnapped.