Kwara monarch, six others escape from bandits’ den after vigilante raid
The traditional ruler of Bayagan community in Ifelodun Local Government Area in Kwara State, Alhaji Kamilu Salami, the Ojibara of Bayagan, along with six other abductees, reportedly escaped from the grip of armed bandits on Sunday evening.
According to credible community sources, a coordinated assault by local vigilantes on the forest hideout of the kidnappers enabled the escape. The gun battle reportedly occurred around the Eku Idaji forest area, near Igbaja. Although the monarch and the other escapees had not physically returned to the community as of Sunday evening, they had made contact to confirm their freedom.
The escape comes after the bandits had earlier demanded a ransom of ₦150 million before releasing the monarch. During captivity, the monarch was allowed to speak with community members, apparently as proof he was in their custody, and pleaded for their intervention. He later said he was transported for more than five hours on a motorcycle through dense forest before being taken to the kidnappers’ hideout.
Residents of Bayagan and surrounding communities have reportedly welcomed the news with relief, though many remain anxious as the escapees have yet to physically return home. The incident underscores the growing danger posed by banditry and kidnappings in parts of Kwara State, especially in rural forested areas.
As of now, no official statement has been issued by security agencies regarding the incident or subsequent search for other possible abductees.