The traditional ruler of Olohuntele Community in the Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State has regained his freedom after spending nearly two months in captivity following his abduction by suspected terrorists.
SaharaReporters gathered that the monarch was kidnapped on April 15, 2025, at about 3pm by terrorists who whisked him away to their hideout.
Sources familiar with the incident told SaharaReporters that the traditional ruler was released on Tuesday evening after his family and supporters reportedly met the kidnappers’ demands, which included the payment of millions of naira in ransom and the provision of a motorcycle.
A family source, who spoke on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the matter, confirmed the monarch’s release and disclosed that the kidnappers collected a huge sum of money before setting him free.
“He was released yesterday night after the terrorists collected millions of naira and one motorcycle. We thank God that he is alive and has returned home safely, but he is in a distressing condition after spending about two months in captivity,” the source told SaharaReporters.
The source added that the traditional ruler appeared physically weak and traumatised by the ordeal, having endured harsh conditions while being held by the terrorists.
His release has brought relief to residents of Olohuntele Community and surrounding areas, who had lived in fear and uncertainty since his abduction nearly two months ago.
SaharaReporters previously reported that nine residents of Idi-Iya community near Yaru in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, who were abducted by kidnappers in April, have regained their freedom after the alleged payment of a substantial ransom, while security operatives have arrested four suspected criminals accused of looting properties and livestock from communities deserted due to bandit attacks.
SaharaReporters gathered that the victims were kidnapped on April 23, 2026, and regained their freedom on Tuesday evening after spending several weeks in captivity.
A security source confirmed the development to SaharaReporters, revealing that all nine abductees returned alive despite earlier reports and speculations suggesting that two of them might have died while in captivity.
“The nine abductees of Idi-Iya near Yaru, who were kidnapped on April 23, 2026, regained their freedom today after the alleged payment of a substantial ransom,” the source said.
“All were confirmed alive, contrary to earlier speculations that two of the abductees had died in captivity.”
(SaharaReporters)
