RismadarVoice Reporters
January 21, 2026
The son of the Oniwo of Afin, Oba Simeon Olanipekun, who was abducted by gunmen in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, has regained his freedom after a ₦20 million ransom was paid to his captors.
The victim, Olaolu, a serving member of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), was released on Monday, while his father and other abducted residents remain in captivity.
A family source, said on Tuesday on condition of anonymity, confirmed the development, stating that the prince was freed following intense negotiations with the kidnappers.
“It is true that the prince was released on Monday morning after we paid ₦20 million.
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,” the source disclosed.
Victim Receiving Treatment:
According to the source, Olaolu is currently receiving medical attention at an undisclosed hospital after suffering physical and psychological trauma during his captivity.
“He is alive, but he went through a lot. Doctors are attending to him now,” the source added.
Monarch Still in Captivity:
Despite the release of the prince, the traditional ruler, Oba Simeon Olanipekun, remains in the kidnappers’ den alongside other abducted residents.
The source revealed that the gunmen are now demanding an additional ₦15 million for the monarch’s release.
Security, Community Await Outcome:
As of the time of filing this report, security agencies were yet to issue an official statement on the development.
Efforts to reach the Kwara State Police Command for confirmation were unsuccessful.
Residents of Afin and neighbouring communities are said to be anxious, while community leaders continue to appeal to the kidnappers to release the monarch unharmed.
