Residents of Ode-Oriya in Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State have welcomed the release of their traditional ruler, Chief Adeniyi Adelana, after spending several days in captivity following his abduction by suspected kidnappers.
The monarch, who is the Oloriya (Baale) of Ode-Oriya, was reportedly released days after he was whisked away from his residence by armed men who invaded the community under the cover of darkness.
His release was announced in a message circulated within the community, bringing relief to residents and family members who had anxiously awaited his freedom.
The 60-year-old monarch was abducted during the attack, while his wife reportedly sustained gunshot injuries after allegedly attempting to resist the assailants.
Following the incident, security operatives, including personnel of the Ondo State Police Command and local vigilantes, launched efforts to secure his release. Community sources said the traditional ruler is currently receiving medical treatment at an undisclosed hospital and is responding well.
However, the celebration over his freedom has been overshadowed by reports that the individual said to have delivered the kidnappers' ransom has not returned and is believed to have been held by the abductors.
According to information circulating within the community, the courier disappeared after carrying out the assignment, raising fresh concerns among residents. The police have yet to confirm the development or state whether any ransom was paid to facilitate the monarch's release.
As of the time of filing this report, the Ondo State Police Command had not issued an official statement on the reported detention of the ransom bearer.
Residents have appealed to security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue anyone still in captivity and bring those responsible for the abduction to justice, amid renewed concerns over the spate of kidnappings in parts of the state.
(The Hope Newspaper)
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