Kwara South: When kings are kidnapped
Sir: I write with deep concern over the worsening insecurity in Kwara South, particularly in Ifelodun Local Government Area, where many communities have been deserted following repeated attacks by bandits
- By Awe Babatunde Pilgrim
Sir: I write with deep concern over the worsening insecurity in Kwara South, particularly in Ifelodun Local Government Area, where many communities have been deserted following repeated attacks by bandits and criminal elements.
Communities such as Oke-Ode (especially Ogbayo axis), Omugo in the Oro-Ago district, Bayagan, Budesu, and Ahun have all been severely affected by killings, abductions, and mass displacement. In Oke-Ode alone, a deadly attack led to the killing of vigilantes and even a traditional ruler, forcing residents to flee their homes in large numbers.
More troubling is the fact that traditional rulers are now targets. The kidnapping of the Ojibara of Bayagan, among others, clearly shows that no one is safe not even custodians of our heritage.
The abduction of yet another monarch in Kwara South on Friday April 17, as confirmed by security authorities, further reinforces the alarming reality that even our royal fathers are no longer spared from these brazen attacks
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The insecurity has reached such a level that institutions are being disrupted. Notably, a College of Education in the area had to be relocated to Ilorin due to persistent security threats, further underscoring the scale of the crisis.
What is perhaps most painful is the growing perception that these tragedies are being overshadowed by increasing political activities. While communities’ burn and innocent citizens are hunted, attention appears to be shifting toward political calculations and future elections. This sends a dangerous message that power matters more than people.
The people of Kwara South are not asking for too much. They are asking to live. They are asking to farm their land without fear. They are asking for their children to go to school safely. They are asking for the government they elected to rise to its constitutional duty.
I therefore urge the government and security agencies to act swiftly by deploying adequate security personnel, strengthening local security structures, and prioritising the safety of citizens above all else.
Kwara South is in distress, and Ifelodun is crying for help.
The time to act is now.
•Awe Babatunde Pilgrim,
awexin@gmail.com
