Residents of Olohuntele Community in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State are celebrating the return of their traditional ruler, who regained freedom after spending nearly two months in captivity.

The monarch was reportedly abducted on April 15, 2026, by armed kidnappers and released on Tuesday evening. Family and security sources alleged that ransom was paid before his release.

The traditional ruler of Olohuntele Community in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State has regained his freedom after spending nearly two months in captivity following his abduction by armed kidnappers.

According to sources familiar with the incident, the monarch was abducted on April 15, 2026, at about 3:00 p.m. when gunmen reportedly seized him and took him to an undisclosed location.

Family sources disclosed that the traditional ruler was released on Tuesday evening after relatives and supporters allegedly met demands made by the kidnappers. The demands reportedly included the payment of millions of naira and the provision of a motorcycle.

A source close to the family, who requested anonymity, confirmed the monarch's release and expressed gratitude for his safe return.

"He was released on Tuesday night after the kidnappers collected millions of naira and one motorcycle. We thank God that he is alive and has returned home safely, although he is currently in a distressing condition after spending about two months in captivity."

The source added that the monarch appeared physically weak and traumatised after enduring difficult conditions during his captivity.

His return has brought relief to residents of Olohuntele and neighbouring communities, many of whom had lived with anxiety and uncertainty since his abduction.

In a related development, nine residents of Idi-Iya Community near Yaru in Ifelodun Local Government Area also regained their freedom after spending several weeks in captivity.

The victims were reportedly abducted on April 23, 2026, and released on Tuesday evening following the alleged payment of a substantial ransom.

A security source confirmed that all nine victims returned alive, dismissing earlier reports that suggested two of the abductees had died while in captivity.

"The nine abductees from Idi-Iya near Yaru, who were kidnapped on April 23, 2026, regained their freedom after the alleged payment of a substantial ransom. All were confirmed alive, contrary to earlier speculations that two of the abductees had died in captivity."

The latest releases come amid growing concerns over persistent kidnapping and criminal activities in parts of Kwara State and surrounding areas. Residents have continued to call on security agencies and government authorities to strengthen measures aimed at protecting lives and property.