After 7 days in captivity, Ondo monarch regains freedom
The Oso of Oso, in Ajowa-Akoko, Akoko North-West Local Government Area of Ondo State, Oba Clement Jimoh Olukotun, has regained his freedom from his abductors after spending seven days in captivity.
The 66-year-old monarch was released on Wednesday and now under medical observation in an undisclosed hospital.
The monarch was kidnapped at his residence last week by gunmen, who shot sporadically to gain entry into his home and whisked him away.
It was learnt that the abductors stormed the traditional ruler’s home around 10 pm and destroyed the main door with gunshots before accessing the residence to capture the royal father.
READ ALSO: Police confirm kidnap of Ondo monarch
The kidnappers later contacted the family last week Saturday and demanded a sum of N100 million ransom to free the monarch from where he was being held, hostage.
Confirming his release to newsmen on Thursday, a family source said the kidnappers were paid a sum of N10 million before the traditional ruler was released to them.
According to the source, the monarch was dropped off by the abductors between Kabba and Lokoja, the capital of Kogi State around 10 pm on Wednesday.
His words: “Kabiyesi has been released. He was released around N10 pm yesterday. That was the exact time the family was contacted from Kogi State, where he was dropped between Kabba and Lokoja.
“The abductors collected a sum of N10 million ransom being money raised by the government, colleague monarchs, Chiefs of our town, and our successful children who are based abroad. Our Kabiyesi is in the hospital in Lokoja, where he is being treated, because he has become weary and needed medical treatment to regain strength.
“He will soon reunite with the family here in Oso-Ajowa by the grace of God”.
The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Ondo State Command, Mrs. Funmilayo Odunlami confirmed the release of the monarch.
Odunlami, however, said she was unaware if the ransom was paid to secure the release of Oba Olukotun.
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