Angry residents of Eleyin community in Isanlu-Isin, Kwara State, staged a major protest on Saturday after gunmen abducted members of several families, plunging the area into fear and uncertainty.
The demonstrators blocked the main road linking the town, insisting they would not reopen it until government authorities act decisively to rescue the victims and improve security in the region.
Eyewitnesses told reporters that at least seven people were kidnapped during the raid. Among them were three women, their husband, and three children.
Residents further alleged that despite paying a ransom of N20 million, the abductees remain in captivity. Shockingly, those who reportedly went to deliver the money were also seized by the gunmen.
“The situation is unbearable,” said one community leader, who pleaded for urgent government intervention.
“Our people are still in captivity even after ransom payments. The kidnappers are now holding those who delivered the money. This is beyond alarming.”
Videos circulating online showed dozens of residents, including youths and women, preventing vehicles from passing through the blocked road as they chanted slogans and demanded immediate government attention.
Some protesters also revealed that three children were abducted earlier in the week, heightening tension across Isin Local Government.
“We are tired of living in fear,” said a protester. “We want Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq and President Bola Tinubu to hear our cries. If nothing is done, we will be forced to defend ourselves.”
Community leaders emphasized that both state and federal authorities must deploy security operatives to secure the release of the victims and restore calm. They warned that the people’s patience was wearing thin.
For now, the blockade remains in place as residents press their demands, underscoring growing frustration over the surge in kidnappings across Kwara South.