The Joint Security Watch Kwara South has strongly condemned the recent abduction of a traditional ruler and two others in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, describing the incident as a troubling sign of worsening insecurity in the region.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the group’s Coordinator, Olaitan Oyin Zubair, expressed concern over the early morning attack on Olayinka community in the Agunjin District.
According to him, gunmen stormed the area around 1:00 a.m., abducting the monarch, Alhaji Saliman OAweda, his wife, and another individual.
Zubair noted that the repeated cases of kidnapping in Kwara South have created a climate of fear among residents. He referenced earlier incidents in Idofin Odo Ase, where several people were abducted and schools were forced to shut down for months due to insecurity.
“We cannot continue to watch our traditional rulers and innocent citizens fall prey to kidnappers. The time for decisive, coordinated action by all security agencies is now,” he said.
He described the latest attack as unacceptable and warned that any delay in responding could further destabilise the already fragile security situation in the area.
“This disturbing trend of attacks across communities in Kwara South underscores the urgent need for a comprehensive and multi-agency intervention to restore confidence among our people,” Zubair added.
The group renewed its call on the Brigade Commander of the 22 Armoured Brigade to intensify military operations in the region, noting that such actions would complement ongoing efforts by security personnel on ground.
Zubair also acknowledged the efforts of security operatives already working in affected communities.
“We commend the gallant efforts of Captain Abiola and his team, whose operations in Oke-Oyan, Owa-Kajola, Owa-Onire and surrounding communities, including the rescue of Idera victims, have demonstrated commitment despite limited resources,” he stated.
“However, more needs to be done. We urge the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Police Force, and all relevant security agencies to treat the security of Ifelodun and the entire Kwara South as a matter of urgent priority,” he added.
GoNews reports that the Chairman of Ifelodun Local Government Area, Abdulrasheed Yusuf, had earlier condemned the abduction, describing it as deeply concerning and a sign that local security measures need to be strengthened.
“This unfortunate incident highlights the urgent need to reinforce our local security framework to prevent further attacks on our communities,” the chairman said.
Following the incident, personnel of the Forest Guards have reportedly launched rescue operations aimed at securing the release of the abducted monarch, Oba Salman Aweda, who was taken from his palace during the attack.
The development has left residents of Olayinka community in a state of fear, with reports indicating that some have begun fleeing their homes amid concerns of further attacks. Authorities are said to be intensifying efforts to track down the perpetrators and ensure the safe return of the victims.
