Traditional Ruler of Okoloke Community, Pa Dada Ogunyanda

Richard Elesho

The abducted Traditional Ruler of Okoloke Community, Pa Dada Ogunyanda in Yagba West Local Government of Kogi, has regained freedom after staying 27 days in the kidnappers’ den.

News of his freedom spread through a viral video on social media. In the short clip, the 90-year-old man is seen being carried on a motorcycle and supported by a younger person. The bike was packed beside a waiting vehicle into which he was discharged. Several people in the background burst into jubilation.

*Watch the video:

The Chairman of Yagba West Local Government, Mr Tosin Olokun, confirmed the traditional rulers’ release to newsmen in a telephone call in Lokoja on Wednesday.

Oba Ogunyanda, who is the Obalohun of Okoloke Community, was abducted from his palace at 2:00 am on May 15.

Olokun, who spoke through his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Sunday Adeyemi, said that the traditional ruler has since rejoined his family and is receiving medical attention.