Kwara Monarch Dies Days After Rescue From Kidnappers

By Ayodele Oni 

Days after his rescue from kidnappers, a Kwara Monarch, the Onigbesi of Igbesi Land, Oba Moses Oyinloye Iwedunmoye I, in Isin Local Government Area of the State, has died.

The Monarch died in the early hours of Saturday at a hospital where he had gone for treatment after his release.

His son, Prince Olasunkanmi, confirmed the death and said the traditional ruler fell ill shortly after returning from captivity.

“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,” he said.

Gunmen abducted the monarch on August 22 after invading Igbesi community. Security operatives rescued him five days later during an operation around the Elerin/Ijomu-Oro axis.

Two other kidnap victims also regained their freedom during the operation.

The rescue followed a distress call received at about 10am at the Oro Police Station. A vigilante member had reported that a colleague sustained a gunshot injury 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 opened fire after sighting the advancing security team. The ensuing gun battle led to the death of one suspected kidnapper.

Other members of the gang fled into the surrounding area as the security team pursued them.

The operation eventually led the security personnel to the three kidnapped victims. They rescued the victims and took them for medical attention.

News of the monarch’s death drew sadness from the community and traditional stakeholders.

The National President of Omo Ibile Igbomina, Bisi Fakayode, announced the death on Saturday and expressed grief over the development.

Fakayode also prayed for the repose of the monarch’s soul.

“The late Oba Iwedunmoye’s death came only days after his release from captivity, adding a tragic turn to the kidnapping incident that had shaken the community.”