By Priye Briggs
Panic gripped Igbesi community in Isin Local Government Area of Kwara State on Saturday night after armed men stormed the area and abducted its traditional ruler, Oba Moses Oyinloye Iwedunmoye I, the Kabiyesi Onigbesi of Igbesi land.
Igbesi, a settlement under Oke-Onigbin town in Kwara South Senatorial District, came under attack at about 11pm on August 22, 2026, when the gunmen reportedly invaded homes in the community.
A community source said the assailants whisked the monarch away to an unknown destination. The source added that some other residents were also taken during the raid.
The Kwara State Police Command has confirmed the incident. State Commissioner of Police, Ojo Adekimi, said the monarch was the only person kidnapped in the attack.
The commissioner said security operatives have launched a manhunt and rescue operation to secure the release of the traditional ruler.
The abduction is the latest in a string of attacks targeting rural communities in Kwara South, where residents have repeatedly raised concerns over bandit incursions, especially at night.
Local leaders in Isin LGA have in recent months called for increased security presence in border communities, citing the vulnerability of traditional institutions and the growing risk to lives and property.
As of press time, no group had claimed responsibility for the attack, and efforts to reach community leaders for further details were ongoing.
The police said investigations are continuing and urged residents with useful information to come forward to assist in the rescue effort.