Abducted Ondo monarch pays N10m ransom, regains freedom 

Oba Clement Jimoh Olukotun, the Oloso of Oso, in Ajowa- Akoko, Akoko North-west local government area of Ondo state  has been freed from abductors after payment of N10 million ransom.

The 66-year old monarch was kidnapped at his residence last week by gunmen who shot sporadically to gain entry into his home and whisked him away for captive for seven days.

During the attack on the monarch, the abductors stormed the traditional ruler’s home around 10pm and destroyed the main door with gunshots before accessing the residence to capture 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 held hostage.

A family source confirmed Thursday that the kidnappers were paid a sum of N10 million before the traditional ruler was let off the hook.

After receiving the staggering sum, the source revealed that Oba Olukotun, was dropped by the abductors between Kabba and Lokoja, the capital of Kogi state around 10pm Wednesday.

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

He said: “Kabiyesi had been released. He was released around N10pm Tuesday. That was the exact time the family was contacted from Kogi state, where he was dropped between Kabba and Lokoja.

“The abductors collected a sum of N10m ransom being money raised by , 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,” the source added.

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 if ransom paid to secure the release of the Oba.