The kidnapped traditional ruler of Bayagan in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, Alhaji Kamilu Salami—the Ojibara of Bayagan—and six other abducted persons have escaped from captivity following a coordinated offensive by local vigilantes.
Community sources confirmed that the breakthrough occurred late Sunday after a vigilante squad stormed the forest hideout where the hostages were being held.
The operation reportedly erupted into a heavy gunfight around the Eku Idaji axis near Igbaja, forcing the abductors to flee and enabling the captives to escape.
Although the monarch and the other victims had not yet physically returned to the community as of the time of reporting, they have made contact with residents to confirm their safety.
The bandits had earlier demanded a ransom of N150 million for the ruler’s release.
They also compelled the monarch to speak with his community to verify that he was in their custody, during which he appealed for urgent intervention and revealed that more victims from a neighbouring settlement were being held alongside him.
Sources said the monarch recounted being transported deep into the forest for over five hours on a motorcycle before reaching the gang’s hideout.
Bayagan, a large community in Ifelodun LGA, was thrown into tension on Saturday after armed men invaded the monarch’s farm and whisked him away at gunpoint. The incident came amid a recent wave of abductions in parts of Kwara State.
Attempts to obtain an official response from the police were unsuccessful as calls and messages to spokespersons went unanswered.
