The family of a Kwara State monarch faces heightened threats after gunmen botched a kidnapping raid on their palace, with new demands and warnings intensifying fears in Ifelodun LGA.
On December 31, 2025, eight armed assailants stormed the Aafin Ile-Ire palace of Oba Simeon Olaonipekun around 8pm, firing shots and targeting the ruler and his wife. Though the initial abduction failed—unlike the recent seizure of Oba Olaonipekun and son Olaolu the Olori sustained a bullet wound and was hospitalized, while attackers looted valuables. Vigilantes, outnumbered at just two on duty, couldn't repel the sophisticated hit linked to broader banditry plaguing Kwara South.
Kidnappers now demand N450 million for related captives, including seven Oyerinola family members like Sikiru, Taye, and Idowu, abducted amid the chaos. Fresh threats vow elimination if demands aren't met, prompting urgent security pleas after a prior Ojibara release via N25 million ransom. Community leaders decry porous defenses despite recent escapes aided by vigilante clashes.
Residents vent fury online over spiraling insecurity.
- "Politicians imported these bandits; now royals pay the price!" – Viral Facebook rants tying attacks to external networks.facebook
- "Kwara bleeding, where's the governor? N450m or blood?" – Demands for state intervention.dailypost
- "From palace to bush: no safe haven left" – Mourning eroded traditional sanctity. Hashtags trend as families solicit aid amid stalled rescues.gazettengr+1