Residents of Egbe town in Yagba West LGA of Kogi State are living in fear after reports emerged that bandits are now using chemical substances inside homes to weaken their victims before carrying out kidnappings.
At least two incidents were recorded in the early hours of Monday, November 24, 2025. Two people were abducted, while another resident narrowly escaped after managing to raise an alarm.
One of the attacks occurred around 11 p.m. at the residence of a staff member of ECWA Hospital, Odorum. The intruders reportedly scaled the fence and remained inside the compound for more than an hour, releasing a substance described as having a “turari”-like smell, which caused weakness in those who inhaled it. The resident, who happened to be outside his room at the time, alerted local vigilantes, who fired warning shots and forced the attackers to flee.
A second attempted abduction near the Baba Labourer area by Government Secondary School, Egbe, was also foiled by the vigilante team, with no casualties reported. Community members praised the vigilantes for their swift response and courage.
The incidents have heightened concerns over rising cases of armed attacks and kidnappings across Yagba East and West, particularly in border communities close to Kwara State. Just last Tuesday, a timber supplier and his assistant were reportedly abducted in Okoloke.
Security authorities are currently assessing the situation, while residents have been urged to remain alert.
The surge in bandit activities in recent days has prompted several states to shut down schools seen as vulnerable targets. Meanwhile, public debate continues over calls by some, including Islamic scholar Sheikh Gumi, for dialogue with the bandits — a proposal others strongly oppose, arguing it could encourage more criminal behaviour.
