The traditional ruler of Bayagan Ile in Kwara State's Ifelodun Local Government Area, Oba Kamilu Salami, has finally been released from captivity. The monarch, known as the Ojibara, spent 25 harrowing days with his abductors before regaining his freedom on the night of Tuesday, December 23, 2025.
A Community's Ordeal and Solitary Effort
Oba Salami was initially seized on his farm by armed bandits on November 29, 2025. According to the community's spokesperson, Ayinla Lawal, his release was secured only after a huge ransom was paid in two separate installments. Lawal expressed profound disappointment, revealing that neither the local nor the state government offered any assistance throughout the crisis.
"The local government and state government didn’t come to our rescue throughout our ordeal," Lawal stated. "Only members of the community contributed the amount. It was really tough for us... and that was why it took a longer time before our monarch was released." He honored a plea from community elders not to disclose the final sum but confirmed the bandits had initially demanded N10 million, then increased it by another N15 million.
The Dangerous Ransom Delivery
The perilous task of delivering the ransom fell to the monarch's immediate younger brother, Aliyu. In a chilling account, Aliyu described traveling to a remote, difficult-to-locate area within Kwara State to meet the hooded bandits, who constantly moved around the terrain.
"At a point, I was seriously afraid and I told the community that I couldn’t go again," Aliyu confessed. "But they told me that I’m the only person who can go, being the monarch’s immediate younger brother, so I was encouraged." He expressed immense relief that he was not detained and that the Oba returned alive.
Aftermath and Future Security
Following his release, a joyous crowd of residents gathered at the palace to welcome their ruler. Due to the physical toll of his captivity, Oba Salami was taken to a private hospital in Ilorin on Wednesday morning for urgent medical attention.
Looking ahead, spokesperson Ayinla Lawal said the community has taken its security into its own hands. "More vigilantes and hunters have been recruited to keep vigil on the community," he announced, expressing confidence that this would prevent future attacks and encourage residents who fled to return. The community extended gratitude to God and the media for their support during the traumatic period.
