Insecurity: Osun monarchs raise alarm over rising kidnappings
The Osun State Council of Obas has raised the alarm over rising cases of kidnapping across the state, particularly in border communities. The monarchs urged the federal government and the
- ...Call for urgent action by FG, state government
The Osun State Council of Obas has raised the alarm over rising cases of kidnapping across the state, particularly in border communities.
The monarchs urged the federal government and the Osun State Government to take swift and proactive measures to stem the tide.
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The Council, led by the Ooni of Ife, Arole Oodua, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, made the appeal following a crucial meeting held at the Ooni’s palace on April 9, 2027, to deliberate on security challenges affecting the state.
In a communiqué signed by the Elerinmo of Erinmo-Ijesha, Oba (Dr) Michael Odunayo Ajayi, Arowotawaya II, on behalf of the Council, the monarchs expressed deep concern over what they described as disturbing and increasing incidents of abduction.
They specifically cited cases in Ora-Igbomina, Ifedayo Local Government Area, a boundary community bordering Kwara and Ekiti states, where kidnapping activities have become worrisome.
According to the Council, a retired Customs officer, Emmanuel Owolabi, was abducted on December 15, 2025, and held captive for about a month before regaining his freedom.
It also recalled another incident on February 1, 2025, when two residents, Sunday Oyekanmi Adeyeye and Sunday Adewumi, were kidnapped from their homes.
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The monarchs noted that similar cases have been reported in Ikonifin, a community bordering Oyo State, warning that the trend poses a serious threat to lives and property.
The Council, therefore, called for increased security presence in vulnerable areas, urging security agencies to intensify surveillance, strengthen intelligence gathering and deploy adequate resources to tackle the menace.
It also appealed for sustained intervention from both the Federal and state governments to protect residents in affected communities.
While reiterating their commitment to supporting lawful efforts to restore peace, the traditional rulers urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies by providing credible information.
The Council stressed that safeguarding lives and property must remain a top priority, adding that collective action is needed to address the growing insecurity in the state.
