Osun monarchs decry renewed kidnappings in Ora-Igbomina
Traditional Rulers Condemn Renewed Kidnappings in Ora-Igbomina
Traditional leaders from the Network of Kings in Osun State have issued a statement condemning recent kidnappings in Ora-Igbomina, a community located at the intersection of Osun, Kwara, and Ekiti states.
The rulers described the incidents as alarming and unacceptable, warning that the ongoing trend could jeopardize the safety of residents and undermine traditional institutions in the area. The joint statement was signed by Oba Dr. Adewale Ojarotade, the Alaa of Ila Ijesa, Oba Amuda Ajadi Adio, the Olukotun of Ikotun, and Oba Professor Adekunle Okunoye, the Eburu of Oba.
Their remarks followed a condolence visit to Oba Johnson Adekanmi Abikoye, the Asaooni of Ora Igbomina, and local community members affected by recent attacks attributed to suspected armed bandits.
The traditional rulers indicated that the infiltration of criminal elements from border towns has exacerbated insecurity in Ora Igbomina and surrounding areas. They emphasized the increased vulnerability of communities located along state borders and called for immediate, coordinated security measures.
During the visit, Oba Ojarotade acknowledged the ongoing efforts of the Osun State Government and law enforcement agencies to secure the release of two residents currently in captivity. He advocated for a shift toward preventive security strategies.
“We must move beyond reactive measures. Our rural communities, particularly border towns, require sustained security presence and intelligence-driven operations to prevent recurrence,” Oba Ojarotade stated.
Echoing these concerns, Oba Okunoye highlighted potential vulnerabilities within rescue operations due to internal compromises, suggesting that information leaks could undermine efforts. He called for internal scrutiny within security frameworks to enhance collaboration among agencies and eliminate leaks.
In his remarks, Oba Abikoye recounted that his community had suffered two attacks within three months, emphasizing its precarious position as a border town. He urged authorities to consider establishing a military camp in the area to strengthen security and deter criminal activity.
Abikoye also provided details regarding recent incidents, noting that Emmanuel Owolabi, a retired Customs officer, was abducted on his farmland in December 2025 and released after nearly a month. He mentioned that two commercial farmers, Sunday Adeyeye and Sunday Adewumi, remain missing after being kidnapped from their homes in February 2026.
The delegation, led by Oba Ojarotade, included several other traditional leaders, who reaffirmed their commitment to working with government authorities and security agencies to enhance safety measures and restore stability across rural communities in Osun State and neighboring regions.
