Residents of Okoloke in Yagba West Local Government Area of Kogi State have been thrown into a state of fear following the abduction of their traditional ruler, Oba James Dada Ogunyanda, by unidentified gunmen.
The incident occurred around 2:00 a.m. on Thursday when the assailants, reportedly armed to the teeth, invaded the monarch’s palace.
Eyewitnesses said the attackers overpowered the palace security before whisking the king away to an unknown destination.
As of the time of filing this report, the abductors had not made contact with the family or demanded any ransom, heightening the tension in the area.
The development has left residents and members of the royal household in distress, with many gathering around the palace to offer prayers for the king’s safety.
The Kogi State Police Command has confirmed the abduction. Police Public Relations Officer, SP William Aya, stated that a search operation had already begun.
A joint team of police officers, other security agencies, and local vigilantes has been mobilized in an effort to locate and rescue the monarch.
Chairman of Yagba West Local Government, Tosin Olokun, also condemned the incident, describing it as an assault on the community’s peace and cultural values.
In a statement issued through his Chief Press Secretary, Adeyemi Sunday, Olokun said the security challenges in the region were largely due to its open borders with parts of Kwara State.
“This attack on a respected royal father is both unacceptable and deeply troubling,” he said.
“It threatens the unity and cultural identity of our people.”
Olokun noted that security personnel, working alongside local hunters, had begun coordinated search efforts to track down the kidnappers.
He reassured residents that authorities were doing everything possible to bring the monarch back safely.
The chairman called on the people of Okoloke and neighboring communities to remain vigilant and report any unusual activities or movements to the nearest security post.
He also cautioned against any form of retaliation, warning that such actions could complicate the ongoing rescue operations.
“Most of these criminal elements are not natives of Yagba West. They exploit the border corridors around Isanlu Esa, Okoloke, and Okunran to move in and out of forested areas in neighboring Kwara communities like Babanla and Ndanaku,” he added.
Olokun reaffirmed the local government’s determination to restore normalcy and ensure the safety of lives and property.
“Our hearts go out to the family of His Royal Highness and everyone affected by this disturbing event. We remain hopeful that he will return home safe and unharmed, through the tireless efforts of our security forces and the grace of God,” he concluded.