Kwara attacks: Monarch, Baale’s wife, others feared abducted

A wave of attacks across Kwara State has resulted in the abduction of the first wife of the Baale of Dabu, identified as Iya Ayoka, along with other residents. The raids, which occurred in both southern and northern districts of the state between Friday night and Saturday, have heightened security concerns and prompted calls for urgent action.

In Dabu community, Ifelodun Local Government Area, gunmen invaded the area on Friday night and abducted Iya Ayoka. This incident follows a pattern of renewed attacks in Kwara South, where several communities have recently experienced kidnappings. The Kwara South Development Forum voiced strong opposition to paying ransoms, stating that residents are financially exhausted from previous payments and are demanding the government secure the release of victims.

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We are not ready to pay a dime. The government needs to bring her back to us.

The forum highlighted the severe financial strain on residents, many of whom have depleted their resources paying ransoms. They also noted that individuals who had returned to their communities after fleeing earlier insecurity are now facing fresh attacks, increasing the risk of further displacement. The group expressed disappointment with the response from the Ifelodun Local Government chairman and accused state authorities of downplaying the severity of the security situation and discouraging public reporting of incidents.

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Many are begging for food. We have used all our money to pay ransom, so we are tired.