A traditional ruler in Nigeria’s Kwara State, Oba Simeon Ibiyinka Olaonipekun of Aafin Ile Ire in the Ifelodun Local Government Area, has been released after more than a month in captivity, according to local media reports.
The monarch was abducted by armed bandits in December 2024 alongside his son. While his son was released earlier following a reported ransom payment of 20 million naira, Oba Olaonipekun remained in the captors’ custody.
He regained his freedom on Thursday morning after an additional 12 million naira was paid to his abductors. Media Talk Africa, a Nigerian outlet, reported that the total ransom was secured through contributions from community members and private individuals, highlighting the grassroots efforts often mobilised in such crises.
Efforts to obtain official confirmation from the Kwara State Police Command were unsuccessful. The command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, could not be reached for comment at the time of publication.
The release of the monarch comes amid persistent security challenges in parts of Nigeria, where kidnapping for ransom, particularly targeting prominent figures and communities, remains a significant concern. Traditional rulers like Oba Olaonipekun often serve as custodians of cultural heritage and community leaders, making their abduction a event with substantial local impact.
While the focus now shifts to the monarch’s recovery and reintegration, the incident underscores the ongoing debate over Nigeria’s security strategies and the heavy financial burden placed on families and communities during ransom negotiations. Authorities have yet to detail any operations or arrests related to the case.
