By SUNTV Global Channel | February 5, 2026
Suspected bandits have reportedly collected an additional ₦12 million ransom and two power banks before releasing the Oniwo of Afin, Oba Simeon Olanipekun, who spent nearly one month in captivity following his abduction in Kwara State.
The traditional ruler regained his freedom late on Wednesday, weeks after he was kidnapped alongside his son during a violent attack on his palace in Ifelodun Local Government Area of the state.
SUNTV Global Channel gathered that the monarch’s release came after the abductors insisted on fresh financial demands, despite an earlier ransom payment made by the royal family.
Oba Olanipekun was abducted on December 31, 2025, when armed men stormed the palace at Aafin Ile-Ere, firing sporadically and forcing their way into the residence. During the attack, the monarch’s son, Olaolu Olanipekun, a serving member of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), was also seized.
Following negotiations, Olaolu was released about two weeks later after the family reportedly paid ₦20 million. However, the monarch was held back as the gunmen allegedly made further demands.
Sources disclosed that the abductors later demanded an additional ₦12 million, along with two power banks, believed to be used to keep their communication devices charged while operating in remote locations. The ransom was reportedly paid before the monarch was finally released.
The freed monarch has since reunited with his family.
After his release, Olaolu was reportedly dropped at a herders’ settlement around Oreke, also in Ifelodun Local Government Area, before being taken to a nearby military base. Security personnel later contacted members of his family to take custody of him.
The young man is currently receiving medical care and psychological support, having suffered severe exhaustion and trauma during his time in captivity.
Eyewitnesses to the palace attack described a terrifying ordeal. A source who spoke anonymously said the attackers arrived around 8:00 p.m., firing gunshots after noticing attempts to secure the palace.
“They demanded the Kabiyesi and his wife. The Olori had already been shot in the arm before they forced their way in. Kabiyesi came out and they took him. They later found his son hiding and abducted him as well,” the source said.
The monarch’s wife, Olori Felicia Olanipekun, who sustained a gunshot injury to her arm during the attack, was rushed to the hospital and survived.
At least 10 family members and visitors were reportedly in the palace at the time of the incident. The community vigilante unit, with only two members on duty that night, was unable to confront the heavily armed assailants.
The abduction and prolonged captivity of the monarch have renewed concerns over worsening insecurity in Kwara South, as residents continue to call for stronger security presence and urgent government intervention.
