Over 30 Kwara Monarchs Flee Amid Kidnapping Wave

Over 30 Kwara Monarchs Flee Amid Kidnapping Wave

No fewer than 30 traditional rulers in southern Kwara State have abandoned their palaces as kidnappings and attacks spread across several communities.

Many of the affected monarchs have relocated to cities such as Ilorin, Osogbo, Offa and Lagos, leaving their domains without leadership.

The mass movement followed repeated raids by armed groups targeting villages and royal homes.

Some rulers have stayed away for months, while others have remained absent for nearly a year, creating fear among residents and weakening local coordination.

Communities including Omugo and Oreke have been hit hard, with homes deserted, farms abandoned and markets shut down.

Residents say constant attacks and abductions forced families to flee overnight, leaving entire areas nearly empty and unsafe.

The crisis has raised concerns over rising insecurity and its impact on livelihoods, as locals struggle to return without protection.

With traditional leadership missing, efforts to restore normal life remain slow despite calls for stronger security action.