Oba-Olaonipekun.webp
The Digest:
Kidnappers in Kwara State have escalated their demands, seeking a combined ₦450 million ransom for the release of a traditional ruler, his son, and eight other residents, casting a dark storm of fear and insecurity over local communities.

Key Points:
  • The Oniwo of Aafin, Oba Simeon Olaonipekun, and his NYSC-member son were abducted from their palace on December 31 by heavily gunmen.
  • Ransom is set at ₦150 million for the monarch and his son, and an additional ₦300 million for eight others kidnapped days earlier from Adanla-Irese.
  • The monarch's wife was shot in the arm during the violent palace invasion and is receiving hospital treatment.
  • Local vigilantes were overwhelmed, with only two on duty during the attack, highlighting severe security gaps.
  • Community leaders confirm negotiations have begun amid desperate appeals for government intervention.
  • The Kwara State Police Command has yet to issue an official statement on the ransom demands.
This brazen attack on royal authority and citizens underscores a deepening security crisis, leaving communities to weather the storm of violence largely on their own while awaiting decisive state action.

Sources: Channels Television


Sources: Punch Newspaper