Kidnapped Ekiti monarch regains freedom, found in Kwara forest

David Oyewumi, the Obadu of Ilemeso Ekiti, who was kidnapped by gunmen in Oye LGA of the state last Thursday, has regained his freedom.

Sunday Abutu, spokesman of the Ekiti police command, confirmed the development on Tuesday, adding that the monarch was released in a forest in Kwara state.

“I can confirm that the ruler has been released from captivity. He has also been reunited with his family,” Abutu said.

“He is receiving medical attention in one of the facilities in the state as a result of the trauma he went through.”

According to NAN, the release of the traditional ruler comes hours after a family source said the abductors had earlier demanded N20 million ransom.

However, it was not clear as of the time of the monarch’s release if ransom was paid.

Abutu, however, noted that the command was not aware if there was ransom payment.

“All I can say is that his freedom was facilitated by the concerted actions taken by the police and other security agencies,’’ the police spokesman said.

Joe Komolafe, Amotekun corps commander in the state, said the monarch was found around Obbo Ayegunle in Ekiti LGA of Kwara with the support of the vigilance group in Kwara.

“When we went into the bush, we tracked the traditional ruler to the area. The vigilantes from Kwara state joined our team and we were able to rescue him,” Komolafe said.

“No ransom was paid. We have brought him home and he is currently receiving medical attention.”