In a disturbing escalation of insecurity in Kwara State, a traditional ruler has been abducted by armed bandits in the Bayagan community of Ifelodun Local Government Area, near Ilorin.
The incident occurred on Saturday morning, November 29, 2025, sending shockwaves across nearby towns and raising fresh concerns about rural safety.
According to reports obtained from Vanguard, the ruler identified locally as Kamilu Salami, the monarch of Bayagan was kidnapped while working on his farm.
Residents say the bandits stormed the area around 9:30am, forcing the monarch away before fleeing into a nearby forest.
His motorcycle was later discovered abandoned at the scene, a sign of the sudden and violent nature of the attack.
Eyewitnesses described the attackers as heavily armed and moving “with confidence,” suggesting they had carefully studied the terrain before striking.
The incident has caused panic in the surrounding villages, with many farmers afraid to return to their farmlands.
So far, the abductors have not contacted the ruler’s family or community leaders, leaving residents anxious and on edge as they await any update.
Security operatives including local vigilantes and police sources are said to be combing the area in search of the monarch, though official details remain limited.
This kidnapping adds to the growing list of targeted attacks across Nigeria, raising questions about the vulnerability of rural communities and the daring tactics of criminal groups operating in forested regions.
As the search continues, residents of Bayagan and nearby Ilorin communities are urging authorities to act swiftly and prevent the region from slipping deeper into fear and uncertainty.