A shocking Kwara bandit attack has left the Olayinka community in the Ifelodun Local Government Area reeling after gunmen stormed the palace of a traditional ruler in the early hours of Saturday.
The incident, which occurred at approximately 1:40 a.m., resulted in the abduction of Oba Salman Aweda, his wife, and one other resident, intensifying concerns regarding the growing **Kwara South security crisis.
Kwara Bandit Attack: A Night of Terror in Ifelodun
The attackers arrived under the cover of darkness, shooting sporadically into the air to intimidate the sleeping population. This display of force ensured that no resistance could be mounted by local residents as the armed men seized the monarch.
The sudden violence has shattered the peace of the community, which had only recently celebrated the formal installation of Oba Aweda by the state government.
A local source confirmed the harrowing details of the night, stating: “Yes, it happened in Olayinka around 1 a.m. His wife and one other person were also taken. The monarch is one of the recently graded traditional rulers.”
Another resident, who spoke in fear of reprisals, described the invasion as terrifying, noting that there was no resistance during the operation.
“The bandits came heavily armed around 1:40 a.m. and took the monarch away. Everybody was scared, so nobody could do anything,” the resident said.
Official Response to the Abduction
Local authorities have moved quickly to address the fallout from this brazen crime. Abdulrasheed Yusuf, the Chairman of the Ifelodun Local Government Area, visited the scene on Saturday to assess the situation.
He labeled the event as deeply disturbing and promised that the state government is prioritizing the safe return of those taken.
“We are deeply concerned about this incident and are taking swift and decisive action in collaboration with security agencies,” Yusuf said during a visit to the community on Saturday.
To track the perpetrators, a joint search-and-rescue operation has been launched. This task force includes professional security operatives, forest guards, and local vigilante groups. These teams are currently combing through the surrounding forests and neighbouring districts to locate the victims.
“The operation is aimed at ensuring the safe rescue of the abducted monarch,” Yusuf added.
Addressing the Security Gap
The Chairman also issued a direct appeal to the public, asking for calm and cooperation. He stressed that community intelligence is a vital component in fighting back against the rising tide of criminality in the region.
“Community cooperation remains critical in addressing security challenges and restoring peace,” he said.
The abduction of a high-ranking traditional leader has sent shockwaves through Kwara South. Many residents are now demanding an increased security presence to prevent further incursions into their communities. As the search operation continues, the state remains on high alert, hoping for a swift and peaceful resolution to this crisis.
