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

The monarch`s demise was officially confirmed on Saturday, September 12, 2026, by Chief Bisi Fakayode, the National President of Omo Ibile Igbomina, who expressed deep sorrow over the loss and prayed for the repose of the traditional ruler`s soul.

The late monarch’s son, Prince Olasunkanmi, also confirmed the tragic news, revealing that the Oba succumbed to a sudden illness tied to his ordeal.

"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 passed away very early this morning," Prince Olasunkanmi stated.

Security officials closely involved in the case believe the rigorous conditions of captivity led to the monarch`s sudden death. In a poignant tribute, Elder Olaitan Oyin Zubair, Coordinator of the Kwara South Joint Security Watch, strongly suspected that the Oba died from the severe trauma suffered during his abduction.

"With deep sorrow, we received the news of the passing of Oba Onigbesi of Igbesi. We have lost a committed son of Igbesi and a revered monarch," Zubair said.

He added, "As a matter of fact, he looked too feeble after the rescue. We had wished and prayed that he would be alive. It is indeed saddening that despite our efforts to save his life, it ended in futility. Our only solace is that he was rescued, and that he passed on in the hands of his loved ones."

On behalf of the Joint Security Watch and the security operatives who participated in the rescue operation, Zubair commiserated with the immediate family, the people of Igbesi, and the Isin Local Government Area, praying that God grants them the fortitude to bear the monumental loss.