The Oniwo of Afin, Oba Simeon Olanipekun, who was abducted in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, has regained his freedom after spending approximately one month in captivity.
His release reportedly followed the payment of an additional N12 million ransom by his family.
The monarch was freed on Wednesday night, two weeks after his son, Olaolu, who was also kidnapped during the attack, regained his freedom following an initial N20 million ransom payment.
A family source, speaking anonymously due to security concerns, confirmed that prolonged negotiations led to the ruler’s release.
“It is true that the monarch was released on Wednesday night after we paid N12 million and two power banks, in addition to the earlier N20 million paid,” the source said.
“He was dropped at a local herders’ settlement around Oreke in Ifelodun LGA, from where he was taken to the military base in Oreke before reuniting with his family.”
The source added that Oba Olanipekun was receiving medical attention at an undisclosed hospital for both physical and psychological trauma sustained during his captivity.
“He is in high spirits now. The family and the entire Afin community are grateful to everyone who ensured his safe release,” the source said.
The Kwara State Police Command confirmed the release of the monarch but denied knowledge of any ransom payment.
The command’s spokesperson, SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, stated that the monarch was reunited with his family following intensified joint security operations in the area.
“The ongoing operations have forced bandits to flee. We are not aware of any ransom payment,” she said, adding that the police have consistently advised families to work closely with security agencies rather than negotiating with kidnappers.
The Oniwo I of Afin, in the Ile-Ire District, was abducted on New Year’s Eve when gunmen stormed his palace, firing sporadically and taking him along with his son Olaolu.
The attack sparked outrage among residents, who called on authorities to strengthen security in rural communities, highlighting rising concerns over kidnapping and banditry in southern Kwara.
The incident is among several high-profile abductions in the state in recent months, underscoring the urgent need for enhanced security measures.
