By The Verita Post

The Onigbesi of Igbesi Land, Oba Moses Oyinloye Iwedunmoye I, has died days after regaining his freedom from kidnappers who abducted him in Isin Local Government Area of Kwara State.

The monarch reportedly died in the early hours of Saturday at a hospital, where he was receiving treatment following his release from captivity.

Oba Iwedunmoye was abducted on August 22, when armed men invaded Igbesi community and took him away.

He regained his freedom five days later during a security operation conducted around the Elerin/Ijomu-Oro axis of Kwara State.

The monarch was reportedly among three kidnapped victims rescued by security operatives during the operation.

His death was announced on Saturday by the National President of Omo Ibile Igbomina, Bisi Fakayode, who expressed sadness over the development and prayed for the repose of the monarch's soul.

The development was also confirmed by one of the late monarch's sons, Prince Olasunkanmi, who said his father died at a hospital after a brief illness.

“Yes, the news is true. He died after a brief illness following his release. We took him to the hospital, hoping he would survive, but he died there very early this morning,” Olasunkanmi said.

The monarch's death comes just days after his rescue, raising concerns over the physical and psychological toll suffered by victims of kidnapping, particularly those who endure prolonged captivity.

His abduction had reportedly caused anxiety within Igbesi and surrounding communities, with residents and traditional stakeholders looking forward to his safe return.

The security operation that led to his release was carried out around the Elerin/Ijomu-Oro axis, where security operatives rescued the monarch and two other kidnapped victims.

Following the confirmation of his death, tributes are expected from members of the Igbomina community, traditional institutions, family members and other stakeholders who mourn the loss of the monarch.

Details surrounding the circumstances of his illness and his eventual burial arrangements were not immediately disclosed as of the time of filing this report.

The death of Oba Iwedunmoye has consequently cast a shadow over the community, coming shortly after his family and subjects had celebrated his return from captivity.