The Oniyani of Iyani Akoko, Oba Joel Daodu, who was abducted recently by gunmen along Owo/Ikare- Akoko highway in Ondo State, has been released.

Confirming the release, spokesman for the Ondo State Police Command, Mr Femi Joseph, said the monarch was seen walking by the roadside in Ayede-Ogbese, a small town along the Akure-Owo highway.

He noted that the traditional ruler has been taken to the police station in his town, adding that investigation is ongoing to unravel the circumstances around his abduction and apprehend his kidnappers.

Mr Joseph, however, told Channels Television that Oba Daodu did not inform the Police that any payment was made before he was released.

The abductors were said to have demanded for five million Naira as ransom to secure his release, a sum which was reportedly reduced to three million Naira.

The Chief Press Secretary to the Ondo State Governor, Segun Ajiboye, also confirmed the release of the traditional ruler to Channels Television.