Tension has gripped residents of Olayinka community in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State following the abduction of their traditional ruler, Oba Salman Olátúnjí Aweda, by suspected bandits in a late-night raid that has once again highlighted growing insecurity in parts of the state.
The monarch was reportedly kidnapped in the early hours of Saturday when a group of heavily armed men stormed his palace under the cover of darkness. Eyewitness accounts indicate that the attackers, believed to be about ten in number, arrived at the palace around midnight, firing sporadically to instill fear and disperse any resistance before forcefully taking the royal father away.
Sources within the community disclosed that the attackers also abducted another individual during the operation. However, in a dramatic twist, the second victim was later abandoned in the bush after reportedly complaining of exhaustion during the forced trek. According to local accounts, the individual had challenged the abductors, asking them to kill him rather than continue the grueling journey. The bandits subsequently tied him to a tree and left him behind before proceeding with the monarch.
The development has sparked widespread fear and outrage among residents, many of whom have described the incident as both shocking and deeply troubling. Community members say the abduction has disrupted normal life, with many people avoiding farms and night-time activities due to fears of further attacks.
According to multiple sources, the abductors have contacted intermediaries and are demanding a ransom of ₦400 million for the release of Oba Aweda. The sum, described by locals as exorbitant, has raised concerns about the increasing boldness and financial motivations of criminal groups operating in the region.
“This is devastating for our community,” one resident said. “Our king is not just a leader; he is a symbol of unity and peace. The fact that he could be taken so easily shows how vulnerable we all are.”
In response to the incident, the Chairman of Ifelodun Local Government Area, Abdulrasheed Femi Yusuf, visited Olayinka community on Saturday morning to assess the situation and reassure residents. During his visit, he condemned the attack and pledged that authorities would spare no effort in ensuring the safe return of the monarch.
“We are deeply concerned about this unfortunate incident,” Yusuf said while addressing community members. “This is not just an attack on one individual but on the entire community and the traditional institution. We are taking swift and decisive action in collaboration with security agencies to ensure Kabiyesi is rescued unharmed.”
He further disclosed that security operatives, including police personnel, local vigilantes, and forest guards, have launched an intensive search operation across nearby forests and surrounding areas. According to him, coordinated efforts are underway to track down the abductors and secure the monarch’s release as quickly as possible.
Yusuf also urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies by providing useful information that could aid ongoing investigations. He emphasized the importance of community vigilance and intelligence-sharing in combating the rising threat of banditry and kidnapping.
Security analysts note that the abduction reflects a troubling trend in which criminal groups increasingly target traditional rulers and prominent individuals for ransom. Such incidents not only undermine local governance structures but also erode public confidence in security systems.
In recent years, several communities across Nigeria have experienced similar attacks, with kidnappers exploiting remote locations, limited security presence, and difficult terrain to carry out their operations. Rural areas, in particular, have been identified as high-risk zones due to their proximity to forests that often serve as hideouts for criminal elements.
Residents of Olayinka community say the latest incident has left them living in fear, with many calling on both state and federal authorities to strengthen security in vulnerable areas. Some community leaders have advocated for the establishment of permanent security outposts and increased patrols to deter future attacks.
“This cannot continue,” another resident lamented. “We need more security presence here. Our people are farmers, and they cannot even go to their farms without fear. The government must act urgently.”
As the search for Oba Aweda continues, family members, community leaders, and well-wishers have expressed hope for his safe return. Prayers and appeals have also been made for his release, with many urging the abductors to reconsider their actions.
Meanwhile, authorities have not disclosed whether negotiations are ongoing regarding the ransom demand, as security agencies typically discourage payment to kidnappers due to concerns that it could encourage further criminal activity.
The Kwara State government is yet to issue an official statement on the incident at the time of this report. However, the situation is being closely monitored, and there are indications that additional security measures may be deployed to the area.
For now, the people of Olayinka community remain on edge, united in their concern for their abducted monarch and hopeful that ongoing rescue efforts will yield positive results. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the persistent security challenges facing many communities and the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to address them.
