February 5, 2026 | SUNTV Global | News
The Oniwo of Afin, Oba Simeon Olanipekun, has regained his freedom after spending weeks in captivity following his abduction by gunmen in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State.
SUNTV Global gathered that the traditional ruler was released after a ransom was paid to his abductors. A source familiar with the development confirmed the release on Thursday, though the exact amount paid was not disclosed.
Oba Olanipekun was kidnapped alongside his son, Olaolu Olanipekun, a serving member of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), during an attack on the royal palace in Aafin Ile-Ire on the night of December 31, 2025.
Olaolu had earlier been released after the payment of ₦20 million, while the monarch and other abducted residents remained in captivity. Reports indicate that the kidnappers later mounted pressure on the royal family and community, allegedly demanding an additional ₦15 million for the release of the monarch and others.
The NYSC member was reportedly abandoned at a herders’ settlement around Oreke, from where he was taken to a nearby military base before being reunited with his family. He was subsequently admitted to a hospital for treatment after suffering physical exhaustion and psychological trauma.
Eyewitnesses said the attackers stormed the palace around 8:00 p.m., firing sporadically before breaking into the building. During the assault, the monarch’s wife, Olori Felicia Olanipekun, was shot in the arm but managed to escape abduction and was rushed to the hospital.
A palace source recounted that the gunmen demanded to see the Kabiyesi and his wife, eventually taking the monarch and later discovering and seizing his son, who had been hiding.
At least 10 family members and visitors were said to be in the palace at the time of the attack. The community’s vigilante group, with only two members on duty, was unable to repel the heavily armed assailants.
The incident has once again highlighted growing insecurity in Kwara South, as residents continue to call for stronger security presence and protection of rural communities.
