The Emir of Yashikira in Kwara North Senatorial District, Alhaji Umar Seriki Usman, has confirmed the release of seven members of his royal family who were abducted by armed bandits.
The monarch disclosed that the victims, released on Wednesday, included three of his wives and four children. They were abducted when bandits invaded his palace earlier this year.
Speaking to DAILY POST on Friday, the emir attributed the eventual rescue partly to public pressure, saying a press conference held by youths from the community in Abuja helped draw the attention of the Federal Government to the situation.
“We thank God and appreciate the federal and state governments for the release of the abductees,” the monarch said.
He explained that Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq had previously made representations to the Federal Government, but that the situation gained greater attention after the youths publicly raised the matter.
On whether ransom was paid, the emir said he could not confirm it. However, he disclosed that the bandits had demanded ₦150 million for each captive, adding that no gunfire was exchanged before the victims were released.
The monarch expressed relief over the release but warned that the community remains vulnerable because the bandits are still believed to be operating in the area.
“We are all happy about the development, but nobody feels secure because they are still with us and we don’t know them,” he said.
The emir consequently appealed to the relevant authorities to intensify security measures and protect Yashikira residents from further attacks and abductions….see more