Hundreds Flee Homes in Kwara South Amid Rising Kidnapping Threat

August 17, 2025

By Ayinde Adeleke

Kwara State, Nigeria – Fear and uncertainty have gripped communities in Kwara South as a surge in kidnappings and violent attacks continues to force residents to abandon their homes.

Over the past weeks, several communities across Oke-Ero, Ekiti, Irepodun, and Ifelodun local government areas have witnessed a rise in abductions, with victims including prominent government officials such as the Director of Personnel Management and the Director of Legal Services in Oke-Ero LGA. Farmers and traders have also been targeted, particularly along major roads linking Ilofa, Omu Aran, and Obbo-Ayegunle, making travel increasingly dangerous.

The deteriorating security situation has pushed hundreds of residents to flee their communities, leaving farmlands and businesses behind. Farmers say they can no longer access their lands for fear of being kidnapped, a trend that analysts warn could worsen food insecurity across the state.

The Kwara State House of Assembly has raised alarm, describing the situation as both a security and humanitarian crisis. Lawmakers are urging Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s administration to overhaul security architecture in the state and provide support for displaced families.

In April, residents of Kaiama in Kwara North also fled en masse following repeated raids by a gang led by a notorious figure known as Mahmuda. The situation has drawn nationwide concern, with civil society organizations calling for urgent federal intervention to prevent further breakdown of law and order.

Meanwhile, local vigilante groups, who have been left to defend communities, continue to appeal for logistics and government backing, warning that without stronger security presence, more communities risk being deserted.