Alhaji Umar Seriki Usman, the Emir of Yashikira in Kwara State, confirmed that seven of his relatives were liberated from armed kidnappers this past Wednesday. The victims, including three of the monarch’s wives and four children, were snatched during a raid on the palace earlier this year.
The Emir noted that a public appeal by local youth in Abuja successfully pressured the federal government to intervene. While initial efforts by Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq did not yield results, the added media attention forced a shift in the situation. Regarding the terms of their release, the monarch could not confirm if a ransom was paid, though he acknowledged the kidnappers had originally demanded 150 million naira per captive.
Despite the relief of their return, the Emir remains concerned for the safety of his community. He stated that the perpetrators are still operating in the vicinity, leaving residents in a state of constant fear and uncertainty.
