Armed bandits have kidnapped Iya Ayoka, the first wife of the Baale (community head) of Dabu community in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State. The attack occurred on Friday night, August 21, 2026, when the assailants stormed the community and took the woman to an undisclosed location.
Bandits Use Kidnapped Victim's TikTok to Demand Ransom
According to a local source, the bandits have been using the TikTok account of another kidnapped victim, 23-year-old Babatunde Fasilat, to demand N20 million and to communicate with the public. The source disclosed that the bandits shot Fasilat's father before abducting her in the first week of August 2026.
The development has heightened fear among residents, who are already grappling with a series of attacks and abductions in parts of Kwara South. The use of social media platforms by criminals to make demands marks a troubling trend in the region's security challenges.
Residents Fear Escalating Insecurity in Kwara South
The local source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the incident has left the Dabu community in a state of panic. "The gunmen came into the village around night and took the Baale's wife away. We have not heard anything about her whereabouts except the posts on the TikTok account," the source said.
The bandits have not only demanded a N20 million ransom but have also been posting updates on the account, which has become a direct channel for their communications. This has complicated efforts by the community to verify the safety of the victims and negotiate their release.
Ongoing Attacks and Abductions in the Region
Residents in Kwara South have experienced a series of abductions in recent weeks, with the latest incident adding to the growing insecurity. The attack on Dabu community follows a pattern of violence that has targeted local leaders and their families, forcing many to consider relocating to safer areas.
The Kwara State Police Command has yet to issue an official statement regarding the kidnapping. However, community members are urging security agencies to intensify patrols and rescue efforts to ensure the safe return of Iya Ayoka and Fasilat.
The incident underscores the urgent need for enhanced security measures in rural communities across the state, as bandits continue to exploit weaknesses in local defenses.
