July 16, 2026
SUNTV Global Channel — Suspected bandits have abducted a businessman and an Islamic cleric during a late-night attack on Eggi Oyo-Ipo Community in Irepodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, with the kidnappers reportedly demanding a total ransom of ₦65 million for their release.
According to community sources, the heavily armed attackers stormed the area on Wednesday night before whisking the two victims to an unknown location.
Residents said the kidnappers have since contacted members of the community, demanding ₦50 million for the release of the businessman and ₦15 million for the Islamic cleric.
The abducted businessman is said to operate a business centre in Buari but resides in Eggi Oyo-Ipo, where he was reportedly traced and seized alongside the cleric during the attack.
The incident has reportedly been reported to the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in Ajasse-Ipo as security agencies intensify efforts to rescue the victims and track down the perpetrators.
The latest kidnapping comes amid growing insecurity in Kwara South. Earlier, armed attackers reportedly invaded Wande Community in Ifelodun Local Government Area, killing one resident, abducting another and leaving several others injured.
Local residents say repeated attacks by armed groups have forced many communities in the region to live in fear, with some villages reportedly being abandoned due to persistent violence.
A security source indicated that the attackers may be linked to a terrorist group that had earlier been engaged by security operatives in Yaru before fleeing towards nearby communities.
As of the time of filing this report, security authorities had not issued an official statement on the latest abduction, while efforts to rescue the victims were said to be ongoing.
