Babanla community raises alarm over rising kidnappings, calls for urgent government intervention
The people of Babanla community in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State have raised a distress call over a surge in kidnapping incidents that have left residents living in fear and uncertainty.
According to a statement signed by concerned indigenes of the community, Babanla — once known for its peace and unity — has recently witnessed two violent attacks within days. The first incident occurred at Ganmu, where travellers heading to Babanla for a Fidau prayer were reportedly ambushed by suspected kidnappers, resulting in the death of one person and the abduction of two others.
Before the community could recover from that shock, another attack was recorded at Budo-Idowu, where three residents identified as Jamiu, Qoyum, and Fatima were kidnapped in their sleep during a late-night raid.
The development has thrown the town into panic. Farmers now avoid their farmlands, families are afraid to sleep, and residents live in constant fear of being targeted next.
“This is not the Babanla we know. Our peace has been shattered, our people are being kidnapped, and our lives are at risk,” the statement read in part.
The community has therefore appealed to the Kwara State Government and relevant security agencies to take swift and sustained measures to restore peace and security in the area.
“This is a plea for protection. A plea for our lives,” the statement concluded.
