Yoruba Oba Dies Days After Being Freed From Kidnappers In Kwara
The Onigbesi of Igbesi Land, Oba Moses Oyinloye Iwedunmoye I, has passed away days after the monarch regained his freedom from kidnappers in Isin Local Government Area of Kwara State.
His 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 monarch’s soul.
According to reports, the monarch had been managing some health challenges before his abduction.
His prolonged absence from his regular medication while in captivity reportedly further complicated his condition.
“He eventually passed away this morning, September 12, 2026.”
Armed men had invaded Igbesi community and abducted the monarch on August 22.
He was released five days later during a security operation in the Elerin/Ijomu-Oro axis of the state.
According to family sources, the monarch passed away in the early hours of Saturday, September 12.
It is said that the monarch suffered a brief illness, was rushed to the hospital, where he died in the early hours of Saturday.
“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,” a son, Prince Olasunkanmi said in confirmation of the news to journalists.
The monarch was among three kidnapped victims rescued by security operatives during the operation around the Elerin/Ijomu-Oro axis.
The Kwara State Police Command had said the operation followed information received at about 10am at the Oro Police Station from a vigilante, who reported that one of his men had sustained a gunshot injury while in the bush around Elerin/Ijomu-Oro.
The Divisional Police Officer of the Oro Police Station subsequently led a combined team of police operatives, military personnel and vigilantes to the area.
According to the police, the suspected kidnappers opened fire after sighting the advancing security team, leading to an exchange of gunfire in which one suspected kidnapper was killed.
The remaining members of the gang fled into the surrounding terrain as the security team pursued them and found the three victims.
