Kogi monarch regains freedom after 28 days in captivity

Obalohun of Okoloke, Oba Dada Ogunyanda, has regained his freedom after spending 28 days in the custody of his abductors.

The Kogi traditional ruler was kidnapped by gunmen on May 15, 2025, but was released on Tuesday, June 11, following a coordinated effort by security forces and local vigilance groups.

The Chairman of Yagba West Local Government Council, Mr. Tosin Olokun, confirmed the royal father’s release, describing it as a victory for the community. “This is a day of joy for Yagba West,” Olokun said.

“We are grateful to God Almighty and all security stakeholders who worked tirelessly to secure Kabiyesi’s safe return.”

Olokun credited the successful rescue to the coordinated operations between local hunters, vigilance groups, and the military.

“Throughout the 28 days of his captivity, we maintained close engagement with the affected community, and we never relented in our search,” he said.

“The message was clear, criminality will not thrive in Yagba West.”