Relief swept through Bayagan Ile on Wednesday after the Ojibara of the community, Alhaji Kamilu Salami, regained his freedom nearly a month after his abduction by armed bandits, ending weeks of anxiety and uncertainty for residents.
The traditional ruler was reportedly released late on Tuesday night, bringing closure to a 25-day ordeal that began when he was seized by gunmen while working on his farm.
His return immediately triggered spontaneous celebrations across the community.
By early morning, crowds had gathered at the palace, with residents singing, praying, and openly expressing gratitude for the monarch’s safe return.
Many described the moment as emotional, given fears that the abduction could end tragically.
Confirming the development, community spokesperson Ayinla Lawal said the release followed intense efforts by local residents who mobilised resources to secure the monarch’s freedom.
“Our Kabiyesi is finally back with us,” Lawal said. “He was released on Tuesday night, and the entire community is grateful to God that he returned alive.”
However, Lawal disclosed that the monarch’s freedom came at a heavy financial cost, explaining that a substantial ransom was paid in two stages. He noted that community elders had resolved not to publicly disclose the amount involved.
“It was a huge sum, and it was not easy for us,” he said. “No support came from either the local or state government during this period. Every naira was raised by members of the community, which is why the process took so long.”
Moreover, he revealed that security measures had since been strengthened to prevent a recurrence, with additional vigilantes and local hunters deployed to safeguard the area.
“With these steps in place, we believe peace will return, and those who fled the community out of fear will begin to come back,” Lawal added.
Meanwhile, the monarch was taken to Ilorin on Wednesday morning for urgent medical evaluation following his prolonged stay in captivity. Family sources said doctors advised rest and close observation.
His younger brother, Aliyu, who escorted him to a private hospital in the state capital, also confirmed the release and provided insight into the dangerous ransom negotiations.
“At some point, I was genuinely afraid to continue going to meet them,” Aliyu said.
“Their hideouts are deep and constantly changing. They contacted me through Kabiyesi’s phone and gave instructions on where to meet them.”
He added that the bandits operated with strict secrecy, making identification impossible. “They were always masked. You cannot even tell who they are,” he said.
Despite his fears, Aliyu said community pressure and his relationship to the monarch compelled him to continue.
“I was encouraged because I am his immediate younger brother. Thankfully, I returned safely, and our monarch is alive.”
Attempts to speak directly with the Ojibara were unsuccessful, as doctors reportedly placed him on extended rest.
“For now, Kabiyesi needs time to recover,” Aliyu said. “He will not be available to speak for a few days.”
The incident adds to growing concerns over rural insecurity in parts of Kwara State, where communities increasingly rely on self-help measures amid persistent threats from criminal groups.