A joint security operation has been launched to rescue the abducted traditional ruler of Olayinka Community in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, Oba Salman Aweda, following a brazen overnight attack on his palace.
The monarch was reportedly seized in the early hours of Saturday alongside his wife and another individual, in an incident that has sparked fear and mass displacement among residents of the agrarian community.
Findings revealed that the assailants stormed the palace between 1:00am and 1:40am, heavily armed, and operated unchallenged as panic gripped the area.
A source familiar with the development, who spoke on condition of anonymity due to security concerns, confirmed that the monarch was among recently elevated traditional rulers in the state.
“Yes, the attack occurred around 1am. The monarch, his wife, and one other person were taken away. He was recently installed,” the source disclosed.
Another resident described the invasion as swift and overwhelming, noting that no resistance was mounted due to fear.
“The gunmen came fully armed and took him away without any confrontation. Everyone was terrified,” the resident said.
The Chairman of Ifelodun Local Government Area, Abdulrasheed Yusuf, who visited the community shortly after the incident, condemned the abduction, describing it as alarming and a reflection of growing security concerns in the area.
He disclosed that a coordinated search-and-rescue effort involving forest guards, security agencies, and local vigilantes had commenced across nearby forests and adjoining communities.
“We are deeply troubled by this development and have activated all necessary security channels to ensure the safe rescue of the victims,” Yusuf stated.
He urged residents to cooperate with security operatives by providing timely and credible information, stressing that community support remains crucial in tackling insecurity.
While appealing for calm, the council boss reassured residents of the government’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property.
“We are intensifying efforts to ensure Kabiyesi returns safely. Strengthening security across the local government remains a priority,” he added.
Attempts to obtain a response from the state police command were unsuccessful, as the spokesperson, Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, could not be reached as of the time of filing this report.
The latest incident adds to a troubling pattern of attacks targeting traditional rulers in Kwara State, with bandits increasingly tightening their grip on vulnerable communities.