Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
Residents and stakeholders have expressed growing concern over the continued captivity of victims abducted in Ikerin-Opin, Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara State, as calls intensify for urgent action to secure their release. The victims, who were kidnapped during a recent attack in the community, remain in the hands of their abductors, leaving their families in a state of fear, uncertainty, and emotional distress.
Community leaders and residents have lamented what they describe as a worrying silence surrounding the incident, stressing that the victims must not be forgotten amid other national concerns. According to concerned citizens, every day the victims remain in captivity deepens the pain of their loved ones, who continue to hope and pray for their safe return.
The abduction in Ikerin-Opin is the latest in a series of violent attacks in Kwara South. On the night of Saturday, May 23, 2026, armed bandits stormed a prayer ground at Ori-Oke Ajaiye, on the outskirts of Ikiran village in the same local government area, where they killed three worshippers and abducted 15 others who had gathered for a night vigil. The attack sparked widespread condemnation and triggered a suspension of night vigils across the council area.
The Kwara State Police Command confirmed the killing of three worshippers and the abduction of 15 others in the Ori-Oke Ajaiye attack, describing it as gruesome, barbaric, and unacceptable. A joint security operation involving the police, military, and local vigilantes was launched to track the assailants and rescue the victims. However, as of early June, the fate of those abducted in Ikerin-Opin remained unclear.
In response to the escalating insecurity, the Executive Chairman of Ekiti Local Government Area, Awelewa Olawale Gabriel, ordered the immediate suspension of all night vigils in worship centres across the council area. The decision followed what the council described as repeated security warnings to religious organisations operating in isolated locations.
Community members have now called on the Federal Government, the Kwara State Government, Ekiti Local Government authorities, security agencies, traditional institutions, and other relevant stakeholders to intensify efforts aimed at securing the immediate release of the victims and ensuring that those responsible are brought to justice. Residents also emphasized the need for stronger security measures across communities in Ekiti Local Government Area to prevent further attacks and protect lives and property.
“The people of Ikerin-Opin deserve protection, the affected families deserve answers, and the victims deserve their freedom,” a concerned resident stated. As the wait continues, stakeholders insist that public attention must remain focused on the plight of the victims until they regain their freedom and reunite with their families.
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