By Balogun Arisekola Azeez, Ilorin Kwara.
Panic has gripped Olayinka community in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State following the abduction of a traditional ruler, his wife, and another resident in a brazen overnight attack by suspected bandits.
The assailants stormed the palace of Oba Salman Olátúnjí Aweda in the early hours of Saturday, firing sporadically to create panic before forcefully taking the monarch and the two others to an undisclosed location.
The incident, which occurred around 1:40 a.m., has sent shockwaves across the community, particularly as the monarch was recently elevated and formally installed by the state government.
“Yes, the incident happened at Olayinka around 1 a.m. His wife and one other person were also abducted. The monarch is one of the recently graded traditional rulers,” a local source confirmed.
Another resident, who spoke under anonymity due to security fears, recounted the terrifying ordeal, saying the attackers operated without resistance as fear overwhelmed the community.
“The bandits invaded the palace around 1:40 a.m. on Saturday. They came heavily armed and took the monarch away without resistance because everyone was terrified,” the source said.
Confirming the development, Chairman of Ifelodun Local Government Area, Abdulrasheed Femi Yusuf, described the incident as deeply troubling and indicative of the urgent need to reinforce security architecture in the area.
“We are deeply concerned about this incident, and we are taking swift and decisive action in collaboration with security agencies,” Yusuf said during an on-the-spot assessment visit to the affected community on Saturday.
He disclosed that a coordinated search-and-rescue operation involving security operatives, forest guards, and local vigilantes had been launched across surrounding forests and neighbouring settlements.
“The combined operation is aimed at ensuring the safe rescue of the abducted monarch,” he stated.
The council boss also appealed to residents to support security agencies with credible intelligence, stressing that community participation remains a vital component in tackling insecurity.
“Community cooperation remains critical in addressing security challenges and restoring peace,” Yusuf added.
While urging calm among residents, he reassured that authorities are fully committed to securing the safe return of the victims and preventing further attacks.
“We are doing everything necessary to ensure that Kabiyesi returns safely. The safety of our people remains a top priority, and we are strengthening measures to improve security across the local government,” he said.
The incident has reignited concerns over a possible resurgence of banditry in Kwara South, with residents expressing fears that the once relatively peaceful area may be sliding into a new phase of insecurity if urge
nt measures are not sustained.
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