The security situation in Kogi State took a frightening dimension on Thursday when a prominent trafitional ruler, Oba J D . Ogunyanda Ilufemiloye,the Obalohun of Okoloke town in Yagba West Local Government area of the state was kidnapped by armed gunmen
Oba Ilufemiloye was abducted from his palace in the early hours of today, Thursday, May 15, 2025.
The Chairman of Yagba West Local Government Authority, Hon. Tosin Olokun, confirmed the abduction of the traditional ruler.
Olokun strongly condemned the abduction of His Royal Highness, Oba J.D. Ogunyanda Ilufemiloye, the Obalohun of Okoloke, by suspected armed bandits.
“This reprehensible attack on a revered traditional ruler is a direct affront to our cultural values and peaceful coexistence.
” It is unacceptable and stands condemned,” he said.
Olokun assured that security operatives, in collaboration with local hunters, have launched coordinated operations to rescue the abducted monarch and others held captive.
“Search efforts are ongoing, with intensified surveillance in key areas,” he said
However, sources said
Oba Okoloke, was abducted around 12:00am on Thursday under yet unclear circumstances.
Eyewitnesses said the kidnappers stormed the palace firing sporadically before whisking away the traditional ruler to an unknown location.
Full text of the press statement issued by the Chairman of Yagba West Local Government on the abduction of the traditional rule :
PRESS STATEMENT*
YAGBA WEST LOCAL GOVERNMENT CONDEMNS MONARCH’S ABDUCTION, ASSURES SWIFT RESPONSE
1. The Yagba West Local Government Authority, under the leadership of the Executive Chairman, Hon. Tosin Olokun, strongly condemns the abduction of His Royal Highness, Oba J.D. Ogunyanda Ilufemiloye, the Obalohun of Okoloke, by suspected armed bandits.
2. This reprehensible attack on a revered traditional ruler is a direct affront to our cultural values and peaceful coexistence. It is unacceptable and stands condemned.
3. In swift response, security operatives, in collaboration with local hunters, have launched coordinated operations to rescue the abducted monarch and others held captive. Search efforts are ongoing, with intensified surveillance in key areas.
4. The Local Government is working closely with all relevant security agencies to ensure prompt and decisive action. Every available resource is being deployed to secure the safe return of His Royal Highness and others in captivity.
5. We appeal to the good people of Yagba West, especially residents of Okoloke and surrounding communities, to remain calm and cooperative. While we understand the fear and concern this situation may cause, we urge everyone to stay alert and security conscious.
6. We encourage residents to promptly report any suspicious persons, movements, or activities to the nearest security post or traditional authorities. Timely information is crucial to the success of ongoing operations.
7. The Local Government also strongly condemns any form of reprisal attacks. We disassociate ourselves from any past retaliatory actions and urge residents not to take the law into their hands.
8. Retaliatory violence only escalates tension and distracts from rescue efforts. We must allow security operatives to perform their duties professionally and without interference.
9. It is widely known that many of the criminals disturbing our peace are not residents of Yagba West. They take advantage of the porous borders in the Isanlu Esa–Okoloke–Okunran axis to access hideouts in Babanla, Babasango, Ndanaku, and other forested areas in neighboring Kwara State.
10. The Local Government is engaging security stakeholders across board to dismantle these criminal networks and cut off their escape routes.
11. We reassure all residents of our unwavering commitment to restoring peace and safeguarding lives and property across Yagba West.
12. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of His Royal Highness and others affected by this incident. By God’s grace and with the continued efforts of our security forces, we are confident they will return safely and unharmed.
Adeyemi Babarinde Sunday, Chief Press Secretary, Yagba West Local Government Council.
(vitalnewsngr.com)
