Kwara Traditional Ruler Freed After 25 Days in Bandits’ Hideout
A traditional ruler in Nigeria’s North-central region has regained his freedom after spending 25 harrowing days in captivity, highlighting the persistent security challenges facing rural communities across the Country.
The Ojibara of Bayagan Ile, Alhaji Kamilu Salami, was released late Tuesday night after being abducted by armed bandits from his farmland in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State.
His freedom followed prolonged negotiations that culminated in the payment of a ransom by members of his community.
The monarch was kidnapped in late November when gunmen stormed his farm and whisked him away into a forest believed to serve as a hideout for criminal gangs operating along the Kwara–Oyo axis.
His abduction triggered fear and tension within Bayagan Ile and surrounding communities, with residents calling on security Agencies to intensify rescue efforts.
According to Community sources, the ransom demanded by the abductors was paid in two instalments, raised collectively by concerned residents and family members.
A local community leader, Ayinla Lawal, confirmed that no Official Government funding was involved in securing the monarch’s release, a situation that reflects a growing trend where communities are left to negotiate directly with kidnappers.
Residents welcomed the monarch back with jubilation on Wednesday morning, as crowds gathered at the palace to celebrate his safe return.
Traditional drumming and prayers marked the end of an ordeal that had left many families displaced and fearful during his absence.
Following his release, the Ojibara was taken to Ilorin, the State capital, for medical assessment after weeks in captivity under difficult conditions.
A family member described the ransom delivery process as risky, noting that the bandits frequently changed locations deep within the forest, complicating negotiations.
Community leaders have since vowed to strengthen local security through the engagement of vigilantes and hunters to prevent future attacks.
Some residents who fled during the monarch’s abduction have begun returning home, though concerns about safety remain high.
The incident adds to Nigeria’s growing list of kidnappings involving traditional rulers, farmers, and community leaders, underscoring the deepening impact of banditry and rural insecurity.
Analysts warn that unless sustained security interventions are implemented, vulnerable communities may continue to shoulder the burden of negotiating with criminal groups.
