Omanghana
Suspected armed bandits have abducted a traditional ruler, the wife of a community leader and several residents during separate attacks across Kwara South Senatorial District.
The weekend incidents affected communities in Isin and Ifelodun local government areas, intensifying concern about the security situation in the region.
Traditional Ruler Abducted in Igbesi
Approximately 10 armed men reportedly invaded Igbesi town in Isin Local Government Area over the weekend.
The attackers abducted the community’s traditional ruler and several other residents before taking them to an unknown location. It was not immediately clear whether the assailants had contacted the victims’ families or demanded a ransom.
Some senior police officers in the affected local government areas reportedly confirmed the attacks to journalists on condition of anonymity. However, a detailed public statement from the Kwara State Police Command was not immediately available.
Baale’s Wife Taken From Dabu Community
In a separate attack, suspected bandits invaded Dabu community in Ifelodun Local Government Area and abducted a woman popularly known as Iya Ayoka.
The victim is the first wife of the Baale, or community head, of Dabu. Reports indicate that she was taken on the night of Friday, August 21, 2026.
The abduction has increased fear among residents of Dabu and nearby settlements, where communities have faced repeated attacks and kidnappings.
The Kwara South Development Forum called on the federal and state governments to intervene and secure Iya Ayoka’s release. The group said communities had exhausted their resources through previous ransom payments and could no longer carry the financial burden.
Kidnappers Allegedly Use Victim’s TikTok Account
Residents have also raised alarm over reports that suspected kidnappers took control of the TikTok account of another victim, 23-year-old Babatunde Fasilat.
Fasilat was abducted in an earlier attack on Wande community in Ifelodun Local Government Area. Accounts differ on the precise date of her abduction, but reports place the incident in July 2026.
The attackers allegedly shot and seriously injured her father as he attempted to protect his family before taking Fasilat away.
Community sources claim the kidnappers subsequently began using her TikTok account to publish posts and communicate while demanding ₦20 million for her release.
The alleged use of a victim’s social media account represents a disturbing method of placing public pressure on relatives. However, the circumstances surrounding the account activity have not been independently established by investigators.
Residents Appeal for Expanded Security Operations
The attacks occurred despite the recent establishment of a Nigerian Army battalion in Omu-Aran, Irepodun Local Government Area, to strengthen security across Kwara South.
Residents have called for coordinated operations in forests and border corridors believed to provide hideouts and escape routes for armed groups.
They also want more patrols, intelligence gathering and a sustained security presence in rural communities rather than temporary deployments following attacks.
The latest incidents have renewed demands for the safe rescue of all abducted residents and stronger protection for vulnerable settlements across Isin and Ifelodun.
Source: Omanghana
