No fewer than 30 traditional rulers across the southern part of Kwara State have fled their palaces following a sustained wave of kidnappings, killings, and violent attacks.
The development has deepened fears over security in rural communities, with many monarchs now seeking refuge in safer urban centres.
Community sources said the affected rulers have relocated to cities such as Ilorin, Osogbo, Offa, and Lagos.
Some monarchs have stayed away from their domains for several months, while others have remained displaced for nearly a year.
The mass departure has created a leadership vacuum in many affected communities.
Communities Affected by Attacks
Findings show that the crisis has hit several communities.
These include Omugo, Afin, Oreke, Oreke Oke-Igbo, Olohuntele, Alabe, Ganmu Ailehri, Ologanmo, and Igbo Agbon.
Residents say repeated attacks by armed groups forced both leaders and locals to flee.
Residents Describe Growing Fear
A resident of Omugo, Wale Olasunkanmi, said his traditional ruler fled due to fear of abduction.
“In the past, our rulers lived among us and guided us during crises. Now, they only visit briefly and leave immediately,” he said.
He added that rising attacks made it unsafe for monarchs to remain in their palaces.
March Attack Marked Turning Point
Olasunkanmi recalled a major attack in March 2026.
Gunmen stormed a church on March 22 and abducted about eight people.
He said the incident triggered mass displacement, with many families leaving overnight.
Although security has slightly improved in recent weeks, fear still remains high.
Leadership Vacuum Deepens Crisis
Residents say the absence of traditional rulers has weakened local coordination.
Without strong leadership, efforts to restore normal life have slowed.
Many communities now struggle to rebuild trust and stability.
Oreke Communities Largely Deserted
Further findings show that Oreke and Oreke Oke-Igbo have been largely deserted since June 2025.
The crisis worsened after an attack on a marble mining site near Oreke-Okeigbo.
Gunmen killed two police officers during the incident.
Witness Accounts of Displacement
A palace worker, Samuel Afolayan, said the attacks started with theft.
He explained that the situation later escalated to kidnappings and killings.
“As I speak, the king is not there. The palace is empty, and the community is deserted,” he said.
He added that nearby villages have also been abandoned.
Monarch Still Recovering After Kidnap
The Oniwo of Afin, Simeon Olaonipekun, has not returned since his abduction.
Gunmen kidnapped him and his son in December 2025.
His son regained freedom after about 21 days.
The monarch was later released after a ransom reportedly above N30 million was paid.
A palace source said he is still receiving medical care due to the trauma.
Fresh Attack in Ifelodun
The violence continues across the region.
Gunmen recently attacked Olayinka community in Ifelodun Local Government Area.
They abducted the monarch, Salman Olátúnjí Aweda, his wife, and another resident.
Economic and Social Life Disrupted
Across the affected areas, daily life has collapsed.
Farmers have abandoned their land.
Schools have shut down, while markets remain inactive.
Residents continue to move to safer locations.
Growing Security Concerns
The crisis highlights rising insecurity in parts of North Central Nigeria.
Experts warn that prolonged attacks could worsen poverty and displacement.
They also stress the need for urgent and sustained security intervention.
Calls for Urgent Government Action
Residents and community leaders have called for stronger security presence.
They want coordinated action to restore peace and enable displaced persons to return.
Many say the safe return of traditional rulers is key to rebuilding community leadership.
