Kidnapped monarch dies after regaining freedom

By Philippine Duru

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The Onigbesi of Igbesi Land in Isin Local Government Area of Kwara State, Oba Moses Oyinloye Iwedunmoye I, has died days after regaining his freedom from his abductors.

The traditional ruler was kidnapped on August 22, 2026, when gunmen invaded Igbesi community and abducted him.

He was later released after spending several days in captivity.

President of Omo Ibile Igbomina, Comrade Bisi Fakayode, announced the monarch’s death on Friday, expressing sadness over the development and praying for the repose of his soul.

One of the deceased monarch’s sons, Prince Olasunkanmi, confirmed that his father died at a hospital in the early hours of Saturday following a brief illness after his release.

“Yes, the news is true. He died after a brief illness following his release. We took him to the hospital, hoping he would survive, but he died there very early this morning,” Olasunkanmi said.

The monarch’s death came days after he was rescued from his abductors during a security operation around the Elerin/Ijomu-Oro axis of the state.

The Kwara State Police Command had confirmed the rescue of Oba Iwedunmoye and two other kidnapped victims during the operation.

The command said the rescue operation followed information received at about 10am at the Oro Police Station from a vigilante who reported that one of his men had sustained a gunshot injury while operating in the bush around Elerin/Ijomu-Oro.

Security operatives subsequently moved into the area, leading to the rescue of the kidnapped victims.