A resident recently released from kidnappers' captivity has alleged that a traditional ruler in Kwara State died while being held by his abductors despite the payment of a substantial ransom by members of his community.
The monarch, identified as the traditional ruler of Olayinka community in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, was reportedly kidnapped about a month ago by suspected bandits who later opened negotiations with community leaders and family members.
According to sources familiar with the incident, the kidnappers demanded ₦21 million, two brand-new motorcycles, and a jerrycan of petrol as conditions for the monarch's release.
Members of the community reportedly met the demands in the hope of securing the ruler's safe return.
However, hopes were dashed after a victim who was recently freed by the abductors in Sagbe reportedly informed residents that the monarch had died while in captivity.
"The traditional ruler of Olayinka in Ifelodun Local Government Area was killed by his abductors despite the ransom payment made by the community," a source told SaharaReporters.
The source further disclosed that the revelation came as a shock to residents, many of whom had remained optimistic that the ransom payment would guarantee the monarch's freedom.
"The kidnappers collected ₦21 million, two new motorcycles and a jerrycan of petrol from the community. Despite all efforts made to secure his release, a person who was recently released by the abductors in Sagbe disclosed that the monarch had died in captivity," the source added.
The reported development has thrown the Olayinka community into mourning, with residents expressing grief and frustration over the tragic outcome despite the sacrifices made to meet the kidnappers' demands.
The incident has also renewed concerns about the growing insecurity and kidnapping crisis affecting parts of Kwara State and other regions of the country, where victims are often held for weeks or months while families struggle to raise ransom payments.
As of the time of filing this report, security agencies in Kwara State had not issued an official statement confirming the monarch's death or providing details on ongoing efforts to apprehend those responsible.
Residents have continued to urge authorities to strengthen security operations across vulnerable communities amid fears of further attacks and abductions.