Kwara abduction: Seven members of my family were released – Emir of Yashikira
Emir of Yashikira Reports Release of Abducted Family Members
ALAHIYI, Nigeria — Alhaji Umar Seriki Usman, Emir of Yashikira in the Kwara North Senatorial District, confirmed that seven members of his royal family were released from captivity on Wednesday. The individuals were abducted earlier this year by armed bandits who attacked the emir’s palace.
In an interview with DAILY POST on Friday, Usman detailed that among those freed were three of his wives and four children. He attributed the successful rescue operation to the advocacy of local youths, who addressed a press conference in Abuja that brought attention to the situation.
“We thank God and appreciate the federal and state governments for the release of the abductees,” Usman said. He acknowledged the efforts of Kwara State Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, who had previously communicated with the Federal Government regarding the crisis.
While asked if a ransom was paid, Usman could not confirm specifics. He stated, however, that the bandits initially demanded 150 million Naira for each captive. He noted that the release occurred without any exchange of gunfire.
Usman expressed ongoing concerns for community safety, emphasizing that the bandits remain active 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 added.
Authorities are urged to enhance security measures to prevent further incidents in Yashikira.
