Ifelodun chairman confirms abduction of monarch, renewed insecurity in Kwara south

The Chairman of Ifelodun Local Government Area in Kwara State, Abdulrasheed Femi Yusuf, has confirmed the abduction of the traditional ruler of Olayinka community, Oba Salman Olátúnjí Aweda, raising fresh concerns over insecurity in Kwara South.

Yusuf disclosed this during a visit to the community on Saturday, where he met with residents in the wake of the incident, which has unsettled the area.

Describing the development as unfortunate, the chairman said the local government was already working with security agencies to secure the monarch’s release.

“We are deeply concerned about this incident, and we are taking swift and decisive action in collaboration with security agencies,” he said.

He added that security personnel, alongside forest guards and local vigilantes, had intensified search efforts across surrounding areas.

According to him, the combined operation is aimed at ensuring the safe rescue of the abducted monarch.

The council boss also called on residents to support ongoing efforts by providing useful information, stressing that “community cooperation remains critical in addressing security challenges and restoring peace.”

Yusuf urged the people of Olayinka to remain calm despite the situation, assuring them that authorities were fully committed to resolving the crisis.

He said every necessary step was being taken to ensure the monarch returns safely.

He further reassured residents that their safety remains a priority under the administration of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, noting that measures were being strengthened to improve security across the local government.

The abduction has heightened fears among residents, with many worried that the incident signals a resurgence of insecurity in Kwara South.