Armed men abducted the Ojibara of Bayagan, Alhaji Kamilu Salami, while he was attending to his farm on the morning of Saturday, November 29, 2025. The attack took place in Bayagan, a community in the Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State. Local sources say the assailants moved swiftly and left behind the monarch’s motorcycle at the farm. 0

Key facts at a glance

• Victim: Ojibara of Bayagan, Alhaji Kamilu Salami. 1
• Location: Bayagan community, Ifelodun LGA, Kwara State. 2
• Reported time: Around 9:30 a.m. on Saturday, November 29, 2025. 3
• Apparent method: Armed gang stormed the farm; motorcycle abandoned at the scene. 4
• Demand (reported later): A ransom figure of N150 million was reported by community sources. 5

How the Abduction Happened

According to several residents who spoke to reporters, the attack was sudden. The bandits arrived at the farm while the monarch carried out routine duties. Witnesses reported seeing heavily armed men who forced the Ojibara onto a motorcycle and sped off toward the bush. 6

One farmer from a neighbouring plot said he hid in the nearby guinea-corn field. He claimed to have seen the kidnappers move with confidence. Because the route from the farm leads directly to forested escape paths, the attackers vanished quickly. 7

Residents raised the alarm after discovering the monarch’s motorcycle abandoned on the farm. This discovery triggered a frantic search and later the involvement of local security agents. 8

Eyewitness Accounts

Eyewitnesses described the scene as chaotic but brief. One witness who asked not to be named said he heard shouts and saw a group of men run toward the monarch. He added that the attackers were armed and made no effort to hide their intent. The witness said he could not approach because the men were too many and heavily armed. 9

Another resident explained that the marauders split into two groups after the abduction. One group retreated into the bush while the other blocked the main road. This, the resident said, helped them avoid immediate pursuit. Such tactics are common in recent kidnappings in the area. 10

Because residents were fearful, many stayed indoors after the incident. Market activity slowed. The immediate aftermath saw people gather at the palace and the main square to plan responses and share information. This communal response began within minutes of the alarm. 11

Security Response and Investigation

Local police units moved to the scene as soon as word spread. They began combing known bush paths and setting up checkpoints on key exits. A joint task force from state security agencies later joined the effort to track the kidnappers. 12

Authorities requested that residents share any useful information. They also asked motorcyclists and travellers to avoid unlit and isolated routes until the situation improves. The police urged calm and patience, while promising to prioritise the safe recovery of the monarch. 13

Because the terrain around Bayagan includes thick bush and forest, search teams have sought help from local hunters and trackers who know the routes. These local trackers often provide immediate leads that formal security units can follow. 14

Meanwhile, security sources report that investigators are analysing footprints, tyre marks, and the direction taken by the kidnappers. Forensic support and intelligence units are also involved. The priority remains to locate and rescue the Ojibara quickly and safely. 15

Ransom Demand and Negotiation Reports

On Sunday morning, a report from community sources indicated that the abductors contacted the town and set a ransom demand. The figure reported by credible outlets was N150 million. Community leaders said the kidnappers asked that the monarch speak to his people to prove he was in their custody, a tactic sometimes used to pressure negotiators. 16

Local chiefs and family members are said to be coordinating with security officers about how to handle the demand. Officials, however, warned against making details public while negotiations and rescue plans proceed. This caution aims to preserve operational options and avoid endangering the victim. 17

Community Reaction

Bayagan residents reacted with shock and fear. The traditional ruler is a unifying figure. His abduction rattled the whole town. Many people prayed in groups. Others held emergency meetings. Women’s groups and traders said they would pause market activities until the monarch is found. 18

Leaders from neighbouring communities visited the palace. They offered solidarity and promised to support search efforts. Youth groups volunteered information and manpower to security efforts. Civic bodies called for stronger patrols in rural farming areas. 19

For many residents, the incident is a sharp reminder of the rising insecurity across parts of Kwara State and beyond. People spoke of the need for better protection for chiefs, farmers, and other vulnerable groups who work in isolated areas. 20

Political and Civil Society Response

Political leaders condemned the abduction and called for urgent action. They promised to work with security agencies. Some lawmakers urged state and federal authorities to tighten intelligence gathering and increase patrols in rural zones. 21

Civil society organisations described the kidnapping as unacceptable. They called for a clear plan to safeguard traditional rulers and other community leaders. They also urged improved coordination between community vigilantes and formal security units. 22

Meanwhile, faith leaders appealed for calm and for people to avoid spreading rumours that could hinder rescue efforts. They organised prayer vigils and asked for peaceful solidarity across all willing communities. 23

Impact on Local Life and Economy

The abduction disrupted daily life. Markets recorded fewer customers. School attendance dipped as parents kept children close. Transporters avoided certain routes. These changes hit incomes and slowed trade. Locals said they preferred short-term economic loss to risking lives. 24

Farmers also reported anxiety about returning to their fields. Because many households depend on agriculture, continued fear could reduce planting or harvesting activity. This risk is particularly worrying ahead of peak farming cycles. 25

What Security Experts Say

Security analysts say kidnappers target isolated individuals to minimise confrontation. They pick places where escape routes are easy. Experts recommend improved lighting, better community policing, and rapid mobile response teams. They also advise that communities set clear, secure channels to report suspicious movement. 26

Furthermore, analysts stressed the importance of local intelligence. When residents share verified tips early, security agencies can act faster. Likewise, building trust between law enforcement and communities reduces the chance that crucial information will be withheld. 27

Steps Residents Are Taking Now

Residents formed voluntary night watches. They organised prayer teams. They also set up temporary checkpoints on main tracks. Community leaders urged caution and requested the public to call the police or the emergency lines for any leads. These grassroots steps aim to increase safety while formal searches continue. 28

Additionally, families of the monarch asked for privacy to manage negotiations and interaction with security agencies. They appealed for respect and calm as the situation develops. Public statements asked the press to avoid sharing sensitive details that could harm rescue efforts. 29

How You Can Help

If you are in or near Bayagan and have relevant information, contact the local police or submit tips through secure channels. Do not attempt to pursue suspects alone. Instead, report verified details. Community safety depends on calm, clear reporting and coordinated action. For contact details, use local police hotlines or the community emergency lines. 30

• Share credible tips only. Rumour fuels panic.
• Keep children and vulnerable people off isolated paths.
• Work with local leaders to set safe return times for farmers.

Follow-Up and Ongoing Coverage

DocuNews Central is tracking developments closely. Our reporters continue to speak with officials, witnesses and community leaders. We will update this story as new, verified information becomes available. For the latest updates and to view related stories, see our Breaking News page and our Crime section.

Related reading: Regional security updates, How communities can build resilience.

Conclusion

The abduction of Oba Kamilu Salami is a grave blow to Bayagan. The community is anxious but united. Security teams are active and community members are cooperating. Meanwhile, leaders are calling for calm and measured action. The priority remains the safe return of the Ojibara and the arrest of those responsible. We will continue to follow this story and publish verified updates as they arrive. 31

Note to editors: Use only verified sources when republishing. For more information or press enquiries, contact DocuNews Central — News Desk.