Hon. Tosin Olokun, the Executive Chairman of Yagba West Local Government Area of Kogi State, on Friday paid a solidarity visit to the Okoloke community following the abduction of the traditional ruler, His Royal Highness, Oba James Dada Ogunyanda Ilufemiloye, the Obalohun of Okoloke.
The visit, which was marked by expressions of concern and assurances of intensified security efforts, comes barely 24 hours after the monarch was kidnapped by armed bandits suspected to be operating from neighbouring Kwara State.
Addressing the chiefs, elders, and concerned residents of Okoloke, Olokun condemned the abduction in strong terms and reaffirmed the commitment of the local government to ensuring the safe return of the traditional ruler.
“I bring the assurance of government at all levels that everything is being done to secure the safe and speedy return of our revered monarch. We are confident that he will return to us safe, sound, and hearty,” Olokun said.
He noted that security operatives, including the Nigerian Army, Nigerian police Force, Department of State Services (DSS), and local vigilante groups, have been mobilised and are currently combing strategic areas, especially around the Isanlu-Esa/Okunran axis, up to known criminal hideouts in neighbouring Kwara State communities such as Babanla, Babasango, and Ndanaku.
“The activities of these criminals have long been traced to the porous borderlines between Kogi and Kwara States. We are working closely with security counterparts to ensure these hideouts are dismantled,” he said.
The chairman also urged the residents to remain calm but vigilant, encouraging community members to report any suspicious movement or individuals to the nearest security post.
“We understand the pain this situation has caused the community, but we must not resort to any form of reprisal. Government strongly condemns retaliatory actions and urges all to refrain from acts that could escalate the situation,” he said.
Responding on behalf of the community, the Odofin of Okoloke, Chief Sunday Ajibola, expressed appreciation to the Chairman for the timely visit and the government’s swift response to the crisis. He described the incident as a painful disruption to the peace the community has long enjoyed.
“We thank Hon. Olokun for standing with us at this difficult time. The presence of the local government here today gives us hope and assurance that our Kabiyesi will return home soon,” Ajibola said.
He urged the security agencies to intensify their operations and called for permanent security posts in border communities to forestall future occurrences.
Meanwhile, residents were seen pledging cooperation with the security agents and vigilantes currently operating in the area, even as calls for improved inter-state security collaboration between Kogi and Kwara States grow louder.
The Joint Security Taskforce in the area has assured that investigations are ongoing and that every lead is being pursued to rescue the monarch unharmed.
