Kwara Monarch Dies Days After Regaining Freedom From Kidnappers

The Onigbesi of Igbesi Land in Isin Local Government Area of Kwara State, Oba Moses Oyinloye Iwedunmoye I, has died just days after regaining his freedom from kidnappers.

The traditional ruler passed away in the early hours of Saturday at a hospital where he had been receiving treatment following his release from captivity. His death was confirmed by his son, Prince Olasunkanmi, who said the monarch developed an illness shortly after he was rescued.

“Yes, the news is true. He died after a brief illness following his release. We took him to the hospital, hoping he would survive, but he died there very early this morning,” his son was quoted as saying.

Oba Oyinloye was abducted on August 22, 2026, when armed men invaded Igbesi community in Oke-Onigbin, Isin Local Government Area.

He spent five days in captivity before he was rescued on August 27 during a security operation around the Elerin/Ijomu-Oro axis of Kwara State. He was among three kidnapped victims found and rescued during the operation.

According to reports, the rescue operation followed information received by security personnel after a vigilante member sustained a gunshot injury while operating in the area.

A joint team of police officers, military personnel and vigilantes subsequently moved into the area. The suspected kidnappers reportedly opened fire after sighting the security team, leading to an exchange of gunfire. One suspected kidnapper was killed, while others fled before the security team eventually located the three victims.

The monarch’s death has sparked mourning across Igbesi and Kwara South. Bisi Fakayode, National President of Omo Ibile Igbomina, announced the monarch’s death and expressed sadness over the loss.

Elder Olaitan Oyin Zubair, Coordinator of the Kwara South Joint Security Watch, also described Oba Oyinloye as a committed son of Igbesi and a respected traditional ruler.

The circumstances surrounding the monarch’s health after his release have drawn attention, particularly because he died only days after being rescued. However, reports currently attribute his death to a brief illness following his release, and there is no confirmed medical statement establishing that the kidnapping directly caused his death.

The people of Igbesi now mourn a traditional ruler whose final days were marked by a traumatic abduction, followed by a brief period of freedom before his death.