The Ojibara of Bayagan, Alhaji Kamilu Salami, has escaped from armed bandits alongside six other captives after local vigilantes launched a daring rescue operation in a forest hideout.
The dramatic escape occurred on Sunday evening, following a fierce battle between vigilantes and bandits around Eku Idaji area, near Igbaja.
Earlier, the kidnappers had demanded a N150 million ransom for the monarch’s release, allowing him to speak with his people as proof of life.
Alhaji Salami pleaded for negotiation, revealing he was transported over five hours through dense forest before arriving at the bandits’ camp.
He also disclosed that other residents from neighboring communities were abducted around the same time.
The monarch was kidnapped on Saturday at 9:30 a.m. when armed bandits stormed his farm, firing shots and whisking him away.
Residents are anxiously awaiting his safe return, grateful for the breakthrough but still on edge until he returns home.
