Family members of the Emir of Yashikira Emirate, Alhaji Umar Seriki Usman, who were kidnapped earlier this year, are released and have returned home safely. The Emirate announces the development in a statement posted on its official social media page late Thursday night, expressing thanks to God and acknowledging prayers and support from the Baatombu Nation during the ordeal. The Emirate says it is pleased to confirm the “freedom” of the royal family members from the kidnappers and notes that they are all back safe. While the sources agree on the release and safe return, they report that key details remain unclear. In particular, it is not stated whether a ransom was paid or whether specific actions by security forces led to the release. One outlet also notes that the Emirate shares a photo of the Emir, dressed in royal blue attire, to mark the occasion. The incident followed an earlier attack on the Emir’s palace by armed bandits in which the monarch narrowly escaped, but some relatives were abducted. Security agencies in Kwara have not issued an official response as of the reports.