Bandits
Panic and fear have gripped the ancient town of Yashikira in Baruten Local Government Area of Kwara State after suspected bandits launched a daring midnight attack on the community.
They invaded the Emir’s palace, set parts of it on fire, and abducted no fewer than 10 residents, including members of the royal family.
The coordinated assault occurred in the early hours of Monday, May 25, 2026, around 12:40 a.m. to 2:25 a.m., with the heavily armed bandits simultaneously attacking the Yashikira Police Divisional Headquarters and the palace of the Emir of Yashikira, Alhaji Umar Seriki.
According to eyewitnesses and residents, the gunmen overpowered local vigilantes, fired sporadically into the air, and went straight for the palace. They set portions of the royal building ablaze before whisking away victims, including three of the Emir’s wives and four of his children. Other residents were also taken away during the raid.
The Kwara State Police Command confirmed the incident, describing it as a “coordinated and desperate assault.” Police spokesperson Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi stated that security operatives have since launched a massive manhunt in collaboration with the military, forest guards, and local vigilantes to rescue the abducted victims and apprehend the perpetrators.
The attack, which came just days before Eid-el-Kabir celebrations, has left the community in shock and mourning. Many residents fled into the bush during the heavy gunfire, while others are currently searching for missing family members.
This latest incident has once again raised serious concerns about the worsening security situation in parts of Kwara State, especially in border communities vulnerable to banditry spillover from neighbouring states.
As of press time, no group has claimed responsibility for the attack, and the abducted victims are yet to be rescued. The state government is expected to issue an official statement soon.This brazen assault on a traditional institution has sparked outrage among Nigerians, with many calling on security agencies to intensify efforts and restore confidence in affected communities.
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