Kwara king flees palace over repeated bandit attacks

The traditional leader of Owa-Onire in Kwara State, Oba AbdulRahman Fabiyi, has relocated from his palace to the outskirts of Ilorin due to ongoing security concerns in his area. This move comes in the wake of several attacks by armed groups, including a significant raid on his palace on December 31, 2025.

Oba Fabiyi recounted that on that date, eight armed individuals forcibly entered his residence, stealing his phone, the phone of his Olori, and some cash at gunpoint. Fortunately, they did not compel him to leave with them, although they did take two of his aides.

He also mentioned a prior incident where he was abducted and held for a week, with his release secured after a ransom of ₦5 million was paid by community members. He speculated that this past experience might be why the attackers did not force him to accompany them during the latest incident.

The Oba emphasized that he will not return to his palace until proper security measures are implemented, expressing concern over the lack of a police station and insufficient security forces in the vicinity. Despite his absence, he continues to fulfill his traditional responsibilities remotely, acknowledging that insecurity is also impacting nearby communities.