The kidnapped Ekiti traditional ruler, the Obadu of Ilemeso Ekiti, in Oye local government area, Oba Oyewunmi has regained his freedom.

The police spokesman in Ekiti, Sunday Abutu, told journalists in Ado-Ekiti on Tuesday that the traditional ruler was released in a forest in Kwara after six days in captivity.

“I can confirm that the ruler has been released from captivity. He has also been reunited with his family.

“He is receiving medical attention in one of the facilities in the state as a result of the trauma he went through,’’ Mr Abutu said.

The ruler’s release was barely 24 hours after a family source told journalists that the abductors demanded N20 million as ransom.

It was, however, not clear whether the family paid the money to secure the release of the ruler, abducted on Thursday.

Mr Oyewumi was kidnapped in his palace by six gunmen who scaled the palace fence around 8.30 p.m., invaded his apartment, and assaulted residents, including the ruler.

The kidnappers contacted the family Saturday and demanded N20 million for his release.

Mr Abutu, however, said, “All I can say is that his freedom was facilitated by the concerted actions taken by the police and other security agencies.’’ 

The Amotekun Corps Commander in Ekiti, retired Brig-Gen. Joe Komolafe, said the ruler was freed at a place in Obbo Ayegunle, Ekiti local government area of Kwara, with the help of the Kwara vigilance group.

“When we went into the bush, we tracked the traditional ruler to the area. The vigilantes from Kwara joined our team, and we were able to rescue (sic) his release.

“No ransom was paid. We have brought him home, and he is currently receiving medical attention,’’ Mr Komolafe said. 

(NAN)