Kidnappers seize monarch in early hours raid in Kogi

Oba Ilufemiloye

Pandemonium has taken over Okoloke community, Kogi State, following the abduction of His Royal Highness, Oba J.D. Ogunyanda Ilufemiloye, the traditional ruler of the community, in the early hours of Thursday.

According to eyewitnesses, a group of heavily armed men stormed the monarch’s palace in Okoloke, a serene community in Yagba West Local Government Area, at approximately 2:00 a.m.

The assailants were said to have overpowered palace guards and forcibly whisked the king away to an unknown location. The operation was swift and left little trace behind.

As of the time of filing this report, the kidnappers have neither made contact nor issued any ransom demands, deepening anxiety among residents, relatives, and members of the royal household.

The entire Okoloke community has been thrown into grief and unease. Concerned citizens have gathered around the palace, offering prayers and urging authorities to act quickly.

Currently, shockwaves run across Okun land, where Oba Ogunyanda Ilufemiloye is revered as a pillar of peace, unity, and cultural identity.

The Kogi State Police Command has confirmed the incident and announced that an investigation is underway.

A joint task force comprising security personnel and local vigilantes have begun a manhunt to locate and rescue the monarch.

As the search continues, the people of Okoloke and the greater Okun region remain united in prayer and hope for the swift and safe return of their beloved king.