THE son of the Oniwo of Afin in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, Oba Simeon Olanipekun, has regained his freedom after abductors collected a ransom of N20 million, days after he was kidnapped alongside his father and other residents.
News Point Nigeria reports that the victim, identified as Olaolu Olanipekun, a serving member of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), was released on Monday following prolonged negotiations between his family and the kidnappers. However, the traditional ruler and other abductees are still being held in captivity.
A family source, who spoke on Tuesday on condition of anonymity, confirmed the development, explaining that the ransom payment was made after intense pressure and concern over the prince’s health and safety.
“It is true that the prince was released on Monday morning after we paid N20 million,” the source said. “They dropped him at a herders’ settlement around Oreke, in Ifelodun Local Government Area. From there, he was taken to the military base in Oreke, where they contacted us to come and pick him up.”
The source disclosed that Olaolu was immediately taken for medical evaluation after his release, noting that he suffered both physical exhaustion and psychological trauma during his time in captivity.
“He is currently receiving medical attention at an undisclosed hospital. The experience was very traumatic for him,” the source added.
Despite the release of the monarch’s son, Oba Simeon Olanipekun remains in the kidnappers’ custody alongside other victims abducted during the same incident. According to the family source, the gunmen have now demanded an additional N15 million for the release of the traditional ruler.
The abduction has heightened fear and anxiety in Afin and surrounding communities, as residents continue to call on security agencies and the state government to intensify efforts to rescue the remaining captives and curb the rising wave of kidnappings in the area.
As of the time of filing this report, there has been no official statement from the Kwara State Police Command regarding the ransom payment or the ongoing efforts to secure the release of the monarch and other abductees.
