Tragedy As Kwara Monarch Dies Days After Release From Kidnappers

The Onigbesi of Igbesi Land, Oba Moses Oyinloye Iwedunmoye I, has died days after he was rescued from kidnappers in Isin Local Government Area of Kwara State.

The traditional ruler reportedly died in the early hours of Saturday at a hospital where he had been receiving treatment following his release from captivity.

His son, Prince Olasunkanmi, confirmed the monarch’s death, saying he developed an illness shortly after regaining his freedom.

“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.

Oba Iwedunmoye was abducted on August 22 when gunmen invaded Igbesi community in Isin Local Government Area.

He regained his freedom five days later after security operatives engaged suspected kidnappers in a gun battle around the Elerin/Ijomu-Oro axis of the state.

The monarch was among three kidnapped victims rescued during the security operation.

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

The rescue operation followed a distress report received at about 10 a.m. at the Oro Police Station from a vigilante member, who reported that one of his colleagues had sustained a gunshot wound while operating in the bush around Elerin/Ijomu-Oro.

Following the report, the Divisional Police Officer of the Oro Police Station led a joint team of police officers, military personnel and vigilantes to the area.

The suspected kidnappers reportedly opened fire after sighting the approaching security operatives, leading to a gun battle in which one of the alleged kidnappers was killed.

Other members of the gang reportedly fled into the surrounding area as the security team gave chase.

The operation subsequently led to the discovery of the three kidnapped victims, who were rescued and taken to a medical facility for treatment.

The death of Oba Iwedunmoye has since thrown the Igbesi community and the wider Igbomina community into mourning.