Suspected bandits have abducted a traditional ruler, his wife, and another resident during a late night attack on Olayinka community in Agunjin District of Ifelodun Local Government Area, Kwara State.
According to reports, the attackers stormed the palace of Oba Salman Aweda around 1:40 a.m. on Saturday, firing gunshots into the air to create panic before taking the victims away to an unknown location.
Sources in the area said the monarch is among the recently graded traditional rulers in the state.
The incident has sparked fresh concern over rising insecurity in parts of Kwara State, especially within rural communities.
Chairman of Ifelodun Local Government Area, Abdulrasheed Yusuf, confirmed that urgent efforts are underway to secure the release of the abducted victims.
During a visit to the community, Yusuf said authorities had begun swift action in collaboration with security agencies.
He disclosed that a joint search and rescue operation involving security operatives, forest guards, and local vigilantes had been launched across nearby forests and surrounding communities.
According to him, the operation is focused on ensuring the safe return of the traditional ruler and the other abducted victims.
The council chairman also appealed to residents to remain calm and support security agencies with useful information that could aid the rescue mission.
He stressed that cooperation from the community remains vital in tackling security threats and restoring peace to the area.
As of the time of this report, no group has claimed responsibility for the abduction.
