Abducted Kwara Monarch Regains His Freedom From Kidnappers

By Glam & Essence

The family of the Oniwo of Afin, in Kwara State,Oba Simeon Olanipekun, who was abducted by gunmen in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, regained his freedom on Wednesday night, February 4, 2026,after being in captivity for over a month.
According to his family, they reportedly paid an additional N12m ransom to ensure that he was freed by the kidnappers.
According to reports, during a violent attack on his palace on New Year’s Eve, the monarch was abducted along with his son, Olaolu, who was serving his National Youth Service Corps.
While Olaolu was released two weeks after their ordeal,following the payment of an initial N20m ransom, the monarch was however not released.
Source revealed that the monarch was finally released after much negotiations with the kidnappers, resulting in an additional payment of N12million and two power banks.
“They dropped him at a local herders’ settlement around Oreke in Ifelodun Local Government Area. He was then taken to the military base in Oreke, where they contacted us.” revealed the family source.
The released monarch is said to be receiving medical attention at an undisclosed hospital,as a result of the physical and psychological trauma he suffered while in captivity.
While confirming the release of the monarch, the Kwara State Police Command has however denied knowledge of any ransom payment.