Abducted family members of Kwara monarch regain freedom

By Ahmed Olayinka

Family members of the Emir of Yashikira Emirate in Kwara State, Alhaji Umar Seriki Usman, who were abducted by kidnappers, have regained their freedom and returned home safely, THE PRIME NEWS reports.

The Yashikira Emirate announced the development in a statement shared on its official platform on Thursday night, expressing gratitude to Almighty Allah for the safe return of the victims.

The statement read in part: “Alhamdulillah Robil Alamin. Yashikira Emirate is pleased to announce the freedom of the Royal Family Members from the kidnappers’ den. They are all back safe.”

The Emirate also thanked members of the Baatombu community across the country for their prayers, solidarity and support throughout the period of the victims’ captivity.

It added that Alhaji Umar Sariki Usman and the entire Yashikira Emirate remained grateful to Allah and to all those who stood by the royal family during the difficult period.

The announcement was accompanied by a photograph of the Emir dressed in royal blue traditional attire.

However, the Emirate did not disclose details surrounding the release of the victims, including whether any ransom was paid or the circumstances that led to their freedom.

As of the time of filing this report, security agencies in the state had not issued an official statement on the development.

The latest development comes months after armed bandits reportedly invaded the monarch’s palace, forcing the Emir to escape while some members of his family were abducted during the attack.

The safe return of the royal family members has brought relief to the Yashikira community and renewed hope for the continued safety of residents in the emirate.