By Akpos Oje
Gunmen suspected to be bandits on Thursday, May 15, 2025 invaded the palace of Oba James Dada Ogunyanda, the Obalohun of Okoloke, in a swift and coordinated operation that occurred around 2am in Okoloke, in the quiet community in Yagba West Local Government Area of Kogi State.
The attackers said to be heavily armed overpowered palace guards and abducted the traditional ruler, whisking him away to an unknown destination.
The incident has since been confirmed by the Kogi State Police Command, which disclosed that a joint task force made up of security operatives and local vigilantes has launched a manhunt to rescue the abducted monarch. Surveillance has been intensified in surrounding areas as part of ongoing operations.
Tosin Olokun, Chairman of Yagba West Local Government, has equally condemned the attack, calling it a “direct affront to cultural values and peaceful coexistence.”
He emphasized that efforts are underway to locate the monarch and urged residents to remain calm, vigilant, and cooperative with security personnel.
Authorities believe the perpetrators are not locals but outsiders who exploit the porous borders around the Isanlu Esa–Okoloke–Okunran axis to access hideouts in neighboring Kwara State forests such as Babanla and Ndanaku. Olokun stressed the importance of avoiding reprisal attacks and allowing security agencies to carry out their duties effectively.
As search operations continue, community leaders and residents hold on to hope for the safe return of Oba Ogunyanda. The government has pledged to use all available resources to ensure the monarch’s rescue and restore peace in the region.
