By Adeyemi Babarinde Sunday.
Oba James Dada Ogunyanda Ilufemiloye, the Obalohun of Okoloke in Yagba West Local Government Area of Kogi State, has regained his freedom after spending 28 days in the custody of his abductors.
The monarch, who was kidnapped by armed bandits on May 15, 2025, was released at midday of Tuesday, June 11, amidst renewed pressure from combined security forces and local vigilante groups operating within the Okoloke-Isanlu-Esa axis and along the porous borderlines with neighbouring Kwara State.
Confirming the development, the Executive Chairman of Yagba West LGA, Hon. Tosin Olokun, described the monarch’s release as a victory for the people and a testament to the resilience and unity of the community in the face of adversity.
The Chairman noted that coordinated operations between the Local Government Hunters, Vigilante Group and the military played a key role in mounting sustained pressure on the abductors, eventually leading to the monarch’s release without further harm.
“We are grateful to God Almighty and all security stakeholders who worked tirelessly to secure Kabiyesi’s safe return. This is a day of joy for Yagba West.
“Throughout the 28 days of his captivity, we maintained close engagement with the affected community, and we never relented in our search. The message was clear, criminality will not thrive in Yagba West,” Olokun said.
The residents of Okoloke and surrounding communities trooped out in celebration as news of the monarch’s release spread, with many commending the government’s persistence and the collaboration of local hunters who knew the terrain and aided the security forces.
Yagba West Local Government reiterated its call for calm and vigilance, warning against any form of reprisal or retaliatory action.
The council maintained that efforts were ongoing to dismantle criminal hideouts located along the Kogi-Kwara boundary regions, particularly in areas such as Babanla, Babasango, and Ndanaku.
Security operatives are continuing surveillance in the area to prevent further breaches, while investigations into the identities and motives of the abductors are ongoing.
