The traditional ruler of Eruku community in Kwara State, Oba Olanrewaju Busari, has issued a fresh security alert, warning that his domain remains highly vulnerable to attacks by armed groups despite recent government interventions.
Community Exposed Through Forest Routes
Speaking during an interview on Arise News Night on Monday, November 24, following the successful rescue of 38 abducted residents, the monarch identified the community's geographical location as a major security weakness. Eruku in Ekiti Local Government Area borders multiple states through dense forest corridors, creating easy access routes for attackers.
"We are somewhat vulnerable because we have large forests linking the community with neighbouring states and local governments," Oba Busari explained. "This makes it easier for them to move around in the surrounding forests."
Warning Signs Preceded Recent Attack
The traditional ruler disclosed that residents had observed several warning signs before the most recent mass abduction incident. Gunshots were regularly heard along major roads, and farmers faced consistent harassment from unknown armed elements.
"Our local vigilantes have been trying to manage the situation, but the scale of what happened on Tuesday was unprecedented," the monarch revealed, highlighting the limitations of local security arrangements against well-organized attackers.
Attackers Exploit Herder Disguises
Oba Busari described the sophisticated tactics employed by the attackers, noting that they often blend in with herder communities, making identification extremely difficult for security forces and local residents.
"The attackers strike and run. Our local hunters sometimes pursue them, but they escape and return later," he said. "Often they mix with herders - you can hardly tell who is a herder and who is a kidnapper."
Government Response and Promised Solutions
The monarch expressed gratitude to both federal and state authorities for their swift response to the recent crisis. He specifically thanked President Ahmed Tinubu for deploying soldiers and police promptly, while also acknowledging Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq's immediate intervention.
However, Oba Busari emphasized that temporary security measures were insufficient. He called for permanent security personnel deployment, including military presence or a mobile police squadron to monitor the border areas effectively.
"Our community borders Kwara, Ekiti, and Kogi States, making it difficult to identify who is who," he stressed. "Permanent security personnel can monitor and check the activities of these hideouts."
The traditional ruler confirmed that Governor AbdulRazaq had visited the community and promised to establish a permanent Forward Operating Base, raising hopes for improved security in the vulnerable border community.
