The son of the Oniwo of Afin, Oba Simeon Olanipekun, has been released by his abductors after a ₦20 million ransom was paid, days after gunmen stormed the Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State.
According to The PUNCH, the victim, Olaolu, a serving member of the National Youth Service Corps, regained his freedom on Monday following negotiations between the kidnappers and the family, according to sources familiar with the incident.
A family source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, confirmed the development on Tuesday, saying the prince was released at a herders’ settlement around Oreke before being taken to a nearby military facility.
“It is true that Olaolu was released on Monday morning after ₦20 million was paid,” the source said.
“The kidnappers dropped him at a herders’ settlement in Oreke, from where he was taken to the military base. That was where we were contacted.”
The source added that the young man is currently receiving medical care at an undisclosed hospital due to the physical and psychological effects of his ordeal.
However, Oba Simeon Olanipekun remains in captivity alongside other residents abducted during the same attack. The kidnappers are reportedly demanding an additional ₦15 million to secure the monarch’s release.
“Our father is still with them, and the kidnappers are insisting on more money,” the source disclosed. “We are hoping for his safe return as soon as possible.”
