Ondo: How N10m Secured Freedom For Abducted Monarch

By Ayodele Oni

After seven days in kidnappers den, Oba Clement Jimoh Olukotun, the Oloso of Oso, in Ajowa- Akoko, Akoko North-West Local Government Area of Ondo State  has regained his freedom from abductors.

The 66-year old Monarch, was abducted at his residence last week by gunmen, who forced their way into the Palace and shot sporadically before whisking him away.

During the seige on the Palace, which happened around 10pm, the gunmen destroyed the main door with gunshots before accessing the residence to abduct the Royal Father.

The kidnappers later contacted the family last week Saturday and demanded a sum of N100 million ransom to free the Monarch from where he was being held hostage.

A family source confirmed  on Thursday, that the kidnappers were paid a sum of N10 million before the Traditional Ruler was let off the hook.

After receiving the amount to secure his release, the source revealed that Oba Olukotun, was dropped by the abductors between Kabba and Lokoja, the capital of Kogi State around 10pm on Wednesday.

He added that the Monarch is presently receiving medicare at a public hospital in Lokoja, which was necessitated by his weariness, having been held captive for seven days.

His words: “Kabiyesi has been released. He was released around N10pm yesterday. That was the exact time the family was contacted all the way  from Kogi State, where he was dropped between Kabba and Lokoja.

“The abductors collected a sum of N10m ransom being money raised by Government , colleague- Monarchs, Chiefs of our town and our successful children who are based abroad.

“Our Kabiyesi is in the hospital in Lokoja, where he is being treated, because he has become weary and needed medical treatment to regain strength.

“He will soon reunite with the family here in Oso-Ajowa by the grace of God.”

When contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer, Ondo State Command, Mrs Funmilayo Omisanya confirmed the release of the monarch.

She, however, said she was unaware whether ransom was paid to secure the release of Oba Olukotun.