The kidnapped traditional ruler of Bayagan community in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, Alhaji Kamilu Salami, the Ojibara of Bayagan, and six others have regained freedom after escaping from their captors on Sunday.
Community sources told Vanguard that the victims fled during a fierce assault launched by local vigilantes, who stormed the forest around the Eku Idaji area near Igbaja, where the bandits were believed to be hiding.
“The vigilantes attacked the bandits deep inside the forest, which created an opportunity for the monarch and the six others to escape,” one of the sources said. Although the escapees had not yet returned to the community as of Sunday evening, they had made contact with relatives to confirm their safety.
The bandits had earlier demanded a ransom of N150 million for the monarch’s release. They reportedly contacted the community in the early hours of Sunday, allowing the monarch to speak with his people and appeal for negotiations.
During the call, the monarch narrated that he was transported on a motorcycle for more than five hours through thick forest paths. He also revealed that several residents from a neighbouring community were abducted alongside him.
Alhaji Salami was seized around 9:30 a.m. on Saturday when armed bandits invaded his farm.
Bayagan is a prominent community within the Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State.
