By Adeyemi Babarinde Sunday
Kidnappers have released
Oba James Dada Ogunyanda Ilufemiloye, the Obalohun of Okoloke in Yagba West Local Government Area of Kogi State, who was abducted from his palace on Thursday, May 15, 2025.
The traditional ruler was released about mid-noon of today, June 11, 2025.
Oba Ilufemiloye regained his freedom after spending 28 days with his abductors.
Reports said the kidnappers were forced to release the traditional ruler due to intense pressure from combined security forces and local vigilante groups operating around the Okoloke-Isanlu-Esa axis and along the porous borderlines with neighbouring Kwara State.
The Chairman of Yagba West Local government, Hon. Tosin Olokun, confirmed the release of Oba Ilufemiloye by his abductors.
However, Olokun, did not confirm wether ransom was paid to secure the release of the second class traditional ruler.
He described his release as a victory for the people and a testament to the resilience and unity of the community in the face of adversity.
The Chairman noted that coordinated operations between the Local Government Hunters, Vigilante Group and the military played a key role in mounting sustained pressure on the abductors, eventually leading to the ruler’s release without any harm.
“We are grateful to God Almighty and all security stakeholders who worked tirelessly to secure Kabiyesi’s safe return.
“This is a day of joy for Yagba West.
“Throughout the 28 days of his captivity, we maintained close engagement with the affected community, and we never relented in our search.
“The message was clear, criminality will not thrive in Yagba West,” Olokun said.
The residents of Okoloke and surrounding communities trooped out in celebration as news of the monarch’s release spread, with many commending the government’s persistence and the collaboration of local hunters who knew the terrain and aided the security forces.
Yagba West Local Government reiterated its call for calm and vigilance, warning against any form of reprisal or retaliatory action.
The council maintained that efforts were ongoing to dismantle criminal hideouts located along the Kogi-Kwara boundary regions, particularly in areas such as Babanla, Babasango, and Ndanaku.
Security operatives are continuing surveillance in the area to prevent further breaches, while investigations into the identities and motives of the abductors are ongoing. (vitalnewsngr.com)
