In a disturbing turn of events, a traditional ruler and the first wife of a Baale were abducted in separate attacks in Kwara State, as kidnappers continue to wreak havoc across the region. The latest incidents, which occurred between Friday night and Saturday, have raised concerns about the safety of communities in Kwara South.
Fresh Kidnapping Wave Hits Kwara State
A traditional ruler, Oba Moses Iwedunmoye I, the Onigbesi of Igbesi Land, was abducted after suspected bandits invaded Igbesi in Isin Local Government Area on Saturday night, August 22. The attackers reportedly invaded the community at about 11 p.m., firing shots before taking the monarch away.
In a separate incident, Iya Ayoka, the first wife of the Baale of Dabu, was abducted in Dabu community, Ifelodun Local Government Area, on Friday night. The Kwara South Development Forum (KSDF) has called for her immediate rescue, saying residents are increasingly frustrated by repeated kidnappings and are no longer willing to keep raising money to pay ransom for victims.
Kidnappers Demand N20m Ransom
The kidnappers are demanding a N20 million ransom for the release of 23-year-old Babatunde Fasilat, who was abducted from Wande community in Ifelodun. According to the KSDF, Fasilat's abductors have also gained access to her TikTok account, which they allegedly use to make posts, place calls, and communicate with her family over the ransom.
Fasilat's father was reportedly shot when he tried to resist the attackers. The incident has sparked widespread condemnation, with many calling for the authorities to take immediate action to rescue the victims.
Multiple Communities Affected
The attacks have not only affected communities in Kwara South but have also extended beyond the region. In Kwara North, gunmen reportedly invaded a filling station in Kokona village, also known as Yana Tsonga, in the Tsaragi district of Edu Local Government Area, where two people were abducted. One victim was reportedly a final-year student who had gone to the station to celebrate her sign-out programme.
With multiple communities affected within a short period, residents are urging security agencies to intensify operations and ensure those still in captivity are rescued. The authorities have confirmed the abduction of Oba Moses Iwedunmoye I and launched security efforts to locate and rescue him.
Residents Call for Action
The KSDF has expressed concern that continued attacks could force residents to abandon their communities if authorities do not take urgent action. The group has called for the immediate rescue of Iya Ayoka and the other victims, emphasizing the need for the authorities to take decisive action to address the insecurity in the region.
As the situation continues to unfold, one thing is clear: the people of Kwara State deserve to live in a safe and secure environment, free from the threat of kidnappings and banditry. The authorities must take immediate action to rescue the victims and bring an end to the reign of terror that has gripped the region.
Source: Pulse.ng
