The Onigbesi of Igbesi Land in Isin Local Government Area of Kwara State, Oba Moses Oyinloye Iwedunmoye I, has died days after he was rescued from kidnappers.
The traditional ruler was abducted on August 22 when armed men reportedly invaded Igbesi community. He regained his freedom five days later after security operatives carried out a rescue operation around the Elerin/Ijomu-Oro axis.
News of the monarch’s death was announced on Saturday by the National President of Omo Ibile Igbomina, Bisi Fakayode, who expressed sadness over the development and prayed for the repose of the late traditional ruler.
One of the monarch’s sons, Prince Olasunkanmi, also confirmed the death, saying his father passed away at a hospital in the early hours of Saturday.
According to the prince, the monarch developed an illness shortly after his release and was taken to the hospital for treatment. Despite efforts to save him, he reportedly died while receiving medical care.
Oba Iwedunmoye was among three kidnapping victims rescued by security personnel during the operation in the Elerin/Ijomu-Oro area.
The Kwara State Police Command said the rescue operation was launched after a vigilante member alerted the Oro Police Station at about 10am that one of his colleagues had sustained a gunshot injury while operating in the bush around the area.
Following the report, the Divisional Police Officer in charge of Oro Police Station led a joint team comprising police officers, military personnel and local vigilantes to the location.
The suspected kidnappers reportedly opened fire after noticing the approaching security team, resulting in a gun battle during which one suspected member of the gang was killed.
Other members of the group reportedly fled into the surrounding area as security operatives pursued them. The three abducted victims were subsequently discovered and rescued.
The victims were evacuated from the area and taken for medical attention.
The death of Oba Iwedunmoye has reportedly left residents and members of the Igbesi community mourning, coming only days after the monarch’s release from captivity.
