Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
The traditional ruler of Bayagan in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, Alhaji Kamilu Salami, has escaped from the hands of kidnappers following a fierce operation carried out by local vigilante groups in the early hours of Monday.
Alhaji Salami, popularly known as the Ojibara of Bayagan, was abducted alongside six other residents from a neighbouring community. Their captors reportedly held them deep inside a forested enclave, where bandits have been operating with increasing boldness in recent months.
According to credible community sources, the breakthrough came when vigilantes stormed the hideout after receiving intelligence on the victims’ location. The sudden offensive caused confusion within the camp, giving the monarch and the other abductees the opportunity to flee to safety.
The successful escape has brought relief to the affected communities, which have been battling recurrent incidents of kidnapping and armed attacks. Residents say the development underscores both the rising insecurity in rural Kwara and the growing reliance on community vigilantes as first responders.
Authorities are yet to issue an official statement, but security operatives are reportedly combing the area to track down the fleeing attackers.
The rescue has once again raised questions about the strengthening of local security architecture and the urgent need for more coordinated government action to curb violent crime across the state.
Yet again, communities are forced to rely on their own courage in the face of rising insecurity. The escape is a relief, but the question remains: how long will citizens continue to fend for themselves?”
The safe escape of the Ojibara and six others offers a moment of relief, but it also underscores the persistent insecurity in Kwara State’s rural communities. Strengthened government action, coordinated security efforts, and community vigilance remain critical to preventing future abductions and ensuring lasting peace.
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