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

The traditional ruler died at a hospital in the early hours of Saturday following what his family described as a brief illness after his release from captivity.

Oba Iwedunmoye was abducted on August 22 after armed men invaded Igbesi community. He regained his freedom five days later during a security operation around the Elerin and Ijomu Oro axis of the state.

His death was announced 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.

One of the monarch's sons, Prince Olasunkanmi, also confirmed the death.

"Yes, the news is true. He died after a brief illness following his release," Olasunkanmi said.

According to him, the family took the monarch to hospital following his release in the hope that he would recover, but he died in the early hours of Saturday.

MONARCH RESCUED DURING SECURITY OPERATION

Oba Iwedunmoye was among three kidnapped victims rescued during a joint security operation around the Elerin and Ijomu Oro axis.

According to the Kwara State Police Command, the operation began after the Oro Police Station received information from a vigilante at about 10am that one of his colleagues had suffered a gunshot injury while operating in the bush.

The Divisional Police Officer subsequently led a combined team comprising police officers, military personnel and vigilantes to the area.

Police said the suspected kidnappers opened fire after spotting the advancing security personnel, leading to an exchange of gunfire.

One suspected kidnapper was killed during the confrontation, while other members of the group fled into the surrounding terrain.

Security personnel pursued the fleeing suspects and subsequently discovered the three abducted victims, including the traditional ruler.

The rescued victims were evacuated from the area and taken for medical attention.

MONARCH DIES AFTER BRIEF ILLNESS

Despite surviving the kidnapping ordeal and regaining his freedom, the monarch's family said his health deteriorated following his release.

He was subsequently admitted to hospital, where he died on Saturday morning.

The family did not provide further details about the illness or indicate whether his death was directly connected to injuries or conditions experienced while in captivity.

His death comes amid continuing concern over kidnapping and insecurity affecting communities in parts of Kwara State and other areas of Nigeria.