Kwara monarch’s son freed after N20m ransom as father remains in captivity

The son of the Oniwo of Afin, Oba Simeon Olanipekun, who was abducted by gunmen in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, has been released after a N20m ransom was reportedly paid.

The victim, Olaolu, a serving member of the National Youth Service Corps, was freed on Monday following negotiations with the kidnappers.

His father, the monarch, and other abducted persons are, however, still being held captive.

A family source, who confirmed the development on condition of anonymity, said Olaolu was released after the ransom was paid and was dropped at a herders’ settlement around Oreke in Ifelodun Local Government Area.

“He was released on Monday morning after we paid N20m. The kidnappers left him at a herders’ settlement near Oreke. From there, he was taken to the military base in the area, where they contacted us,” the source said.

The source added that Olaolu is currently receiving medical care at an undisclosed hospital due to physical and psychological stress suffered during his captivity.

Meanwhile, Oba Simeon Olanipekun remains in the kidnappers’ custody alongside other victims. The abductors are said to be demanding an additional N15m for the monarch’s release.