Kogi monarch regains freedom after 27 days in captivity

The kidnapped traditional ruler of Okoloke community in Yagba West Local Government Area of Kogi State, Pa Dada Ogunyanda, has regained his freedom after spending 27 days in captivity.

The chairman of Yagba West LGA, Hon. Tosin Olokun, confirmed the monarch’s release on Wednesday in Lokoja.

Oba Ogunyanda, the Obalohun of Okoloke, was abducted by gunmen from his palace in the early hours of May 15, 2025, sparking outrage and fear across the local community.

A video currently circulating on social media shows the elderly monarch being transported on a motorcycle before being transferred into a waiting vehicle to reunite with his family. The footage has since drawn emotional reactions from residents and sympathizers.

Local sources say the traditional ruler is now receiving medical attention to recover from the traumatic ordeal. Details of how he was released including whether a ransom was paid remain unclear as of press time.