Gunmen Demand N40 Million Ransom for Abducted Wife of Slain Kwara Traditional Ruler

The Olukoro of Koro-Ekiti, Oba Olusegun Aremu-Cole, was brutally murdered in his palace on Thursday night. The perpetrators, suspected to be gunmen and kidnappers, have now demanded a ransom of N40 million for the release of the deceased monarch’s wife and another individual who were abducted following the heinous act.

Initially, the kidnappers set a staggering ransom of N100 million when they contacted the family on Sunday. However, there has been a reduction in their demands, as confirmed by Mr. Kehinde Bayode, the Chairman of the Transition Implementation Committee (TIC) in the Ekiti Local Government Council of Kwara. He revealed that negotiations were underway, and efforts were being made to secure the release of the hostages.

A breakthrough in the case came with the apprehension of a suspect related to the murder and abduction. The arrest took place in Eruku town in the Ekiti LGA on Sunday. Despite this development, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) in Kwara, Toun Ejire-Adeyemi, did not confirm any arrests and stated that a tactical team had been deployed to Koro-Ekiti to identify and apprehend the culprits.

As the community struggles with this tragic incident, authorities are intensifying efforts to bring the perpetrators to justice and secure the safe release of the abducted individuals. The situation remains fluid, with ongoing negotiations and investigative actions underway.