A traditional ruler in Kwara State, the Oniwo of Afin, Oba Simeon Olanipekun, has regained his freedom after spending about one month in captivity, following the payment of an additional ₦12 million ransom to his abductors.
The monarch was released on Wednesday night, nearly two weeks after his son, Olaolu, who was kidnapped alongside him, secured his freedom after an earlier ₦20 million ransom was paid. The development has brought widespread relief to residents of Afin community and surrounding areas in Ifelodun Local Government Area.
A family source, who spoke on condition of anonymity in Ilorin on Thursday, confirmed that sustained negotiations eventually led to the monarch’s release. According to the source, the abductors also demanded two power banks alongside the additional ransom before setting the monarch free.
“It is true the monarch was released on Wednesday night after we paid ₦12 million and two power banks in addition to the initial ₦20 million ransom. They dropped him at a local herders’ settlement around Oreke in Ifelodun Local Government Area. From there, he was taken to the military base in Oreke, where they contacted us,” the source said.
Oba Olanipekun, popularly known as Aniwo I of Afin community in the Ile-Ire District, is currently receiving medical attention at an undisclosed hospital. The family disclosed that the monarch suffered both physical and psychological trauma during his ordeal but is responding to treatment.
“He is in high spirits now. The family and the entire Afin community are grateful to everyone who played a role in ensuring his release,” the source added.
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The monarch was abducted on New Year’s Eve during a violent attack on his palace. Reports indicate that about eight armed men stormed the palace around 8:00 p.m., firing sporadically before abducting the monarch and his son, an incident that threw the community into fear and uncertainty.
His release has eased tension in Afin and neighbouring communities, which had remained on edge since the abduction. However, the incident has further highlighted growing concerns over insecurity in Kwara State, particularly in rural areas.
Community leaders and residents have renewed calls on security agencies and the state government to intensify efforts to combat kidnapping and other criminal activities across the state, warning that persistent insecurity threatens lives, livelihoods, and traditional institutions.