Kwara Monarch Regains Freedom After 25 Days in Captivity

December 24, 2025
By Ayinde Adeleke

The Ojibara of Bayagan Ile in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, Oba Kamilu Salami, has regained his freedom after spending 25 days in the custody of bandits.

THE YORUBA TIMES gathered that the traditional ruler, who was abducted on his farm, was released on Tuesday night.

His return triggered widespread jubilation in the community, as residents trooped to the palace to welcome him and congratulate the royal family on his safe return.

Confirming the development on Wednesday morning, the community’s spokesperson, Ayinla Lawal, disclosed that the monarch was released after a ransom—paid in two instalments—was raised solely by members of the community.

Lawal said neither the local government nor the Kwara State Government intervened during the monarch’s ordeal, adding that the delay in securing his release was due to the difficulty in raising the demanded sum.

“I’m happy to inform you that our monarch has been released. He was released on Tuesday night,” Lawal said.

“Our elders and members of the community have pleaded that we should not disclose the amount, but it was huge. The local and state governments did not come to our rescue. Only members of the community contributed, and it was really tough for us, which is why it took longer.”

He thanked God for the monarch’s safe return and expressed appreciation to the media and community members for their support.

It would be recalled that Lawal had earlier revealed that the bandits reneged on an initial agreement after collecting ₦10 million, demanding an additional ₦15 million before releasing the monarch.

“We took the money to the agreed location, but they demanded another ₦15 million, which we struggled to raise,” he said.

Lawal expressed optimism that security in the community would improve, noting that additional vigilantes and hunters had been recruited. He added that displaced residents were expected to return home following the monarch’s release.

He also disclosed that the traditional ruler was taken to Ilorin, the state capital, on Wednesday morning for urgent medical attention.