**PRESS STATEMENT**
**INSECURITY: YAGBA WEST COUNCIL CHAIR VISITS OKOLOKE, ASSURES SAFE RETURN OF ABDUCTED MONARCH**
Hon. Tosin Olokun, the Executive Chairman of Yagba West Local Government Area in Kogi State, conducted a solidarity visit to the Okoloke community on Friday, following the distressing abduction of the traditional ruler, His Royal Highness Oba J.D. Ogunyanda Ilufemiloye, the Obalohun of Okoloke.
This visit, which took place less than 24 hours after the monarch was kidnapped by armed bandits believed to be operating from neighboring Kwara State, was characterized by expressions of concern and a commitment to enhancing security measures in the area.
During his address to the chiefs, elders, and concerned residents of Okoloke, Olokun condemned the abduction in the strongest terms and reaffirmed the local government’s dedication to ensuring the safe return of the traditional ruler.
“I bring you the assurance from all levels of government that we are taking every possible measure to secure the safe and swift return of our esteemed monarch. We are confident that he will return to us safe, sound, and in good health,” Olokun stated.
He highlighted that security operatives, including the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), and local vigilante groups, have been mobilized and are actively searching strategic areas, particularly along the Isanlu-Esa/Okunran axis, as well as known criminal hideouts in neighboring Kwara State communities such as Babanla, Babasango, and Ndanaku.
“The activities of these criminals have long been traced to the porous border between Kogi and Kwara States. We are collaborating closely with our security counterparts to dismantle these hideouts,” he emphasized.
The chairman also urged residents to remain calm yet vigilant, encouraging community members to report any suspicious activities
On behalf of the community, Chief Sunday Ajibola, the Odofin of Okoloke, expressed gratitude to the Chairman for his timely visit and the government’s swift response to the recent crisis. He characterized the incident as a painful disruption to the peace that the community has long cherished.
“We extend our heartfelt thanks to Hon. Olokun for standing with us during this challenging time. The presence of local government officials today instills hope and reassures us that our Kabiyesi will return home soon,” Ajibola stated.
He urged security agencies to intensify their operations and called for the establishment of permanent security posts in border communities to prevent future incidents.
In the meantime, residents have pledged their cooperation with the security personnel and vigilantes currently active in the area, as calls for enhanced inter-state security collaboration between Kogi and Kwara States continue to grow.
The Joint Security Taskforce in the region has assured the community that investigations are ongoing and that every lead is being pursued to ensure the safe return of the monarch
Adeyemi Babarinde Sunday,
Chief Press Secretary, Yagba West Local Government Council.
17-05-2025
