By Our Correspondent
National News – Residents and community leaders in Kwara South, Kwara State, have raised alarm over persistent killings, kidnappings, and mass displacement affecting several communities across the region.
The Kwara South Development Forum on Tuesday accused authorities of failing to adequately protect residents despite repeated attacks by armed groups.
The group, through a statement signed by its acting Speaker, Obashola Ayomide Ridwan, said the violence has intensified in recent months, leaving families in fear and forcing many to abandon their homes.
According to the forum, the insecurity has affected multiple communities across Ekiti and Ifelodun Local Government Areas, where traditional rulers, residents, and worshippers have been targeted by suspected terrorists.
The group recalled that the traditional ruler of Koro town, Segun Aremu-Cole, was killed in February 2024 during an attack that shocked the region.
It also noted that another monarch, Oba Bayagan in Ifelodun Local Government Area, was abducted by gunmen, highlighting the growing threat to community leadership structures.
The forum further revealed that on January 1, 2026, armed men abducted the Oniwo of Afin, Simeon Olanipekun, along with his son, Olaolu, in the Ile-Ire district of Ifelodun Local Government Area.
In addition, several worshippers were reportedly kidnapped during church services in communities such as Eruku and Omugo.
Many families, the group said, have been forced to sell property and other valuables to raise ransom payments, while several victims remain in captivity.
The situation has also affected local vigilante groups who attempt to defend their communities.
The forum explained that poorly equipped vigilantes have suffered casualties while confronting attackers armed with sophisticated weapons such as AK-47 rifles.
In Oke Oyan, two vigilantes were reportedly killed last week during a confrontation with suspected terrorists, while another prominent vigilante commander was earlier killed in Igbaja while trying to repel attackers.
The group alleged that security agencies had earlier been alerted about possible attacks in three local government areas but failed to act promptly.
As a result, more than 20 communities in Kwara South have reportedly been deserted as residents flee for safety.
Calling for urgent intervention, the forum urged the Kwara State Government and the Federal Government to deploy more security personnel to the region.
It also appealed for improved support, equipment, and logistics for local vigilantes to help protect communities and prevent further displacement.
Without swift action, the group warned, the humanitarian crisis in Kwara South could worsen as more residents continue to abandon their homes due to fear and insecurity.
