The Kwara South Development Forum has raised alarm over rising insecurity in Kwara South Senatorial District, accusing both state and federal authorities of neglecting residents as violent attacks force towns to be deserted.
In a statement signed by the forum’s Acting Speaker, Obashola Ayomide Ridwan, it was revealed that communities continue to experience killings, kidnappings, and assaults without sufficient protection from security agencies.
The forum highlighted that traditional rulers have increasingly become targets. The killing of the Koro town monarch, Oba Segun Aremu-Cole, in February 2024 marked the start of a disturbing trend, with other royal fathers and community leaders also under threat. Another ruler, Oba Bayagan of Ifelodun Local Government Area, has reportedly been abducted.
In January 2026, armed men abducted the Oniwo of Afin, Oba Simeon Olanipek, and his son Olaolu in the Ile-Ire district of Ifelodun. Churches have also been targeted, with worshippers abducted during raids in Eruku and Omugo communities.
The forum warned that repeated attacks have forced many families to flee their homes, sell properties to pay ransom, and abandon ancestral lands. Over 20 communities in Kwara South are said to have been deserted due to fear of further violence.
Local vigilantes attempting to defend communities have suffered casualties due to inadequate weapons and support. Recent incidents include the deaths of two vigilantes in Oke Oyan and the loss of a prominent vigilante commander in Ìgbàjá.
The forum accused security agencies of failing to act on prior intelligence warnings about imminent attacks, leaving residents feeling abandoned despite the severity of the crisis.
The group called on the Kwara State Government and the Federal Government to urgently deploy more security personnel, strengthen local vigilantes, and prevent further escalation of violence across the region.
