Okuta, Kwara State – A rescue operation to free a kidnapped businessman in Okuta, Baruten Local Government Area, ended in tragedy when three lives were lost—the victim, a brave vigilante, and a suspected kidnapper.
Late on Sunday night, around 10:00 pm, armed men attacked the home of Alhaji Dauda Ismaila, a well-known businessman and farmer in Okuta. Witnesses say the attackers fired shots into the air to scare residents before dragging Alhaji Dauda away into the nearby forest.
“The gunmen came with guns and started shooting everywhere,” said a local resident who did not want to be named. “Everyone was afraid to come out. They took Alhaji Dauda and ran into the bush.”
Vigilantes and Security Forces Respond
As soon as the news spread, local vigilantes—volunteers who help keep the community safe—rushed to the scene. They chased the kidnappers into the forest, joined later by security forces including the military.
“The vigilantes acted quickly, but the kidnappers were also armed,” explained another source. “There was a fierce gun battle inside the bush.”
During the shootout, the victim, a vigilante, and one of the kidnappers were killed. The body of Alhaji Dauda Ismaila was later found in the forest with serious injuries.
The vigilante, who was shot in the stomach, died before help could arrive. The body of the suspected kidnapper was reportedly set on fire by angry youths before the police could recover it.
Growing Concerns in Kwara and Across Nigeria
Residents of Okuta and surrounding areas are now living in fear, as kidnapping and violent attacks have become more frequent.
This incident is just one of many across Nigeria, where insecurity is rising. In the first quarter of 2025 alone, over 1,420 people were killed and 537 kidnapped across the country.
“We want the government to help us with more security,” said a worried resident. “We cannot continue like this. Our lives are in danger every day.”
Recently, just three weeks before this incident, another victim was kidnapped in Shiya community, a town in Okuta district. The victim was later released, but the community remains on edge.
Kwara State, once known as the ‘state of harmony’, is now facing a surge in kidnappings and banditry, especially in its rural areas. Experts say that unemployment, poverty, and weak governance are fueling this crisis.
Community and Authorities React
When contacted for comment, Muhammed Baba Saliu, the lawmaker representing Okuta in the Kwara State House of Assembly, refused to speak about the incident.
The police spokesperson, Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, only asked for the location of the incident and had not given any official statement at the time of filing this report.
However, the Seriki Fulani of Baruten, Ardo Muhammed Abdullahi, confirmed the deaths to the media.
“The victim, a vigilante member, and one of the kidnappers died during the rescue operation, which was supported by the military,” he said.
“The operatives are still inside the forest looking for them, but we have heard nothing yet. I will inform you as soon as there is an update, hopefully a positive one.”
Ongoing Security Operation
Security forces, including the military, police, and vigilantes, are still combing the forest for the remaining kidnappers. The community is hoping for a quick end to the crisis and the safe return of any other victims.
Recent operations have also led to the arrest of eight kidnap suspects and the rescue of victims in Kwara, showing that security agencies are stepping up their efforts. However, many residents say more needs to be done to ensure their safety.
The situation in Kwara and across Nigeria remains tense. With kidnappings and killings on the rise, many are calling for stronger security measures, better governance, and more support for local vigilantes.
Quote of the Day
“The rising insecurity in our communities is a threat to our lives and livelihoods. We urge the government to act fast and restore peace to our land.”
— A concerned resident of Okuta, Kwara State
The tragic events in Okuta serve as a painful reminder of the growing insecurity facing many Nigerian communities today. The deaths of the kidnap victim, a brave vigilante, and a suspected kidnapper highlight not only the dangers posed by criminal gangs but also the risks faced by those who step forward to protect their neighbors. The people of Kwara and across Nigeria deserve a future free from fear, where harmony and progress can truly flourish. Until then, the call for urgent action and community solidarity remains as important as ever.
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