The Ojibara of Bayagan Ile in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, Kamilu Salami, abducted by bandits 25 days ago, has regained his freedom. PUNCH Online gathered that the monarch, who was kidnapped on his farm, was released on Tuesday night. His return sparked celebrations as residents trooped to the palace to welcome and congratulate him and his family.
A community spokesperson, Ayinla Lawal, confirmed the development on Wednesday, saying the monarch was freed after ransom was paid in two instalments. “I’m happy to inform you that our monarch has been released. He was released on Tuesday night,” he said. Lawal added that the amount was “huge” and solely raised by community members, alleging that the state and local governments did not assist.
Lawal recalled that the bandits initially rejected an earlier payment of N10 million and later demanded an additional N15 million. He said vigilantes and hunters had been recruited to secure the community. The monarch was taken to Ilorin for medical attention, while his brother, Aliyu, said the bandits operated in remote locations and communicated while masked.