Afin Ile-Ire Community in Kwara State has denied allegations against its traditional ruler, HRH (Oba) Simeon Ibiyinka Ọlaònipẹkun, describing them as false, misleading, and malicious.
This was contained in a Press statement that was signed by Chief David B. Ibiyinka, Chairman of the Afin Ile-Ire Development Association onbehalf of the community.
Ibiyinka who expressed gratitude to individuals and organizations who supported the monarch during his abduction and release on February 5, 2026, after 35 days in captivity.
The community noted that the monarch was abducted alongside his son, who was serving in the National Youth Service Corps, on December 31, 2025.
The community refuted claims that the monarch is anti-government, harbouring security risks, or orchestrated his own abduction. It also denied allegations that he invited Bororo groups to host an Islamic festival in the community.
The statement explained that the monarch was approved and installed by the Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, in 2020, and maintains cordial relationships with government authorities.
Chief Ibiyinka described the monarch as a God-fearing leader who treats all residents fairly, regardless of tribe or religion.
He noted that the monarch’s wife narrowly escaped death during the attack on the palace, sustaining gunshot injuries, and that the monarch and his son endured severe physical and psychological hardship during their captivity.
The statement read, “Our king is a supporter of the government at all levels and cannot bite the finger that feeds him.
” He has fear of God in his heart and is a friend to every law-abiding citizen in his domain, regardless of tribe or religion.”
The community attributed the rumors to disgruntled elements seeking to tarnish the monarch’s image and destabilize the community.
The statement urged members of the public and government authorities to disregard the allegations, expressing confidence that truth would ultimately prevail.
The statement further explained that the Malud Nabiy festival was organised by local Muslims in collaboration with fellow Muslims from neighbouring communities, and that the monarch granted approval for the programme after consulting with the town’s Imam to avoid any perception of religious bias.
The Community advised those spreading the rumors to desist.
