In a dramatic turn of events, a Kwara State traditional ruler has regained his freedom after a daring escape from the clutches of kidnappers. The monarch, the Ojibara of Bayagan in Ifelodun local government area, Alhaji Kamilu Salami, was abducted from his farm but managed to flee following a fierce confrontation between his captors and local vigilante forces.
Vigilante Raid Forces Kidnappers to Flee
The Ojibara was kidnapped on the morning of Saturday, November 29, while working on his riverside farmland. The incident, which occurred around 9:30 a.m., sent shockwaves through the Bayagan community. Fellow farmers raised the alarm after discovering his abandoned motorcycle on the farm premises. An eyewitness, a farmer from a neighbouring village who hid in a guinea corn farm, reported seeing the kidnappers force the district head onto a motorcycle before speeding off into the dense bush.
However, the story took a hopeful turn when a local vigilante team launched a rescue operation. Sources within the community confirmed that the vigilantes traced the abductors to the Eku Idaji area, close to Igbaja. There, they engaged the bandits in a heavy gun battle deep inside the forest.
Monarch and Six Others Seize Freedom
The intense pressure from the vigilante assault reportedly forced the kidnappers to abandon their captives and run for their lives. This provided the crucial window for Alhaji Kamilu Salami and six other abductees to escape from the kidnappers' den. Although they have not yet physically returned to Bayagan as of the time of reporting, the Ojibara and the other escapees have successfully contacted community members. They confirmed the encounter and assured everyone of their safety.
It was revealed that the kidnappers had made a hefty ransom demand of N150 million for the monarch's release. His abduction had thrown the entire Bayagan community into a state of fear and anxiety earlier in the day.
Community Awaits Safe Return, Manhunt Continues
While the people of Bayagan now eagerly await the physical and safe arrival of their district head, security operations in the area remain active. Security operatives and vigilante groups are continuing to comb the forest in a determined effort to track down the fleeing kidnappers. The successful escape, facilitated by local vigilance, highlights the ongoing security challenges in some parts of Kwara State and the critical role often played by community-led security initiatives.
