The Ojibara of Bayagan Ile in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, Oba Kamilu Salami, has regained his freedom after spending 25 days in captivity.
The traditional ruler was abducted by gunmen on November 29, 2025, while working on his farm. He was released late on Tuesday, December 23, sparking celebrations across the community.
Residents reportedly trooped to the palace on Tuesday night to welcome the monarch, whose return marked the end of weeks of anxiety in the agrarian settlement.
Confirming the development on Wednesday, the community spokesperson, Ayinla Lawal, said Oba Salami was freed after a ransom was paid in two instalments. He disclosed that the funds were raised solely by members of the community.
“I’m happy to inform you that our monarch has been released. He was freed on Tuesday night,” Lawal said. “Our elders have pleaded that the amount paid should not be disclosed, but it was huge. Neither the local nor state government came to our rescue during this ordeal.”
Lawal recalled that the abductors had earlier rejected an initial payment of N10 million and later demanded an additional N15 million, which the community struggled to raise.
Despite the prolonged ordeal, he expressed optimism that the area would now be safer, noting that more vigilantes and local hunters had been recruited to secure the community. He added that residents who fled the area out of fear were expected to return.
The monarch was taken to Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, on Wednesday morning for medical attention.
Oba Salami’s younger brother, Aliyu, who accompanied him to a private hospital in Ilorin, also confirmed his release. Aliyu said he acted as the main contact with the abductors and personally delivered the ransom.
He described the process as risky and frightening, explaining that the kidnappers frequently changed locations and kept their identities concealed.
“They always covered their faces and spoke to me using Kabiesi’s phone to give directions,” he said. “At a point, I was afraid to continue, but the community encouraged me. Thank God our monarch is back alive.”