Kidnappers free Ondo monarch, reportedly hold ransom bearer

By Boye Oyeyemi

The traditional ruler of Ode-Oriya community in Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State, Chief Adeniyi Adelana, has regained his freedom after spending several days in the custody of his abductors.

The monarch’s release was confirmed in a message circulated within the community on Thursday, bringing relief to residents and family members who had anxiously awaited his return since he was kidnapped by gunmen earlier this month.

Chief Adelana, 60, was abducted after armed men reportedly stormed his residence at night. During the attack, his wife sustained gunshot injuries while allegedly attempting to prevent the assailants from taking him away.

Following the abduction, security operatives, including personnel of the Ondo State Police Command and local vigilantes, launched a coordinated operation to secure the monarch’s release.

A source in the community disclosed that the monarch is currently receiving medical treatment at a health facility in Owo and is responding well after the ordeal.

Despite the excitement over his freedom, fresh anxiety has gripped the community following reports that the man who allegedly conveyed the ransom to the kidnappers was seized by the abductors and has yet to return.

Although residents claimed the courier was detained after delivering the ransom, the Ondo State Police Command had yet to confirm the development or state whether any ransom was paid to secure the monarch’s release as of the time of filing this report.

Residents have expressed gratitude over the monarch’s safe return while urging security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue the missing courier and bring those behind the abduction to justice, amid growing concerns over the persistent wave of kidnappings across parts of Ondo State.