Suspected terrorists have attacked the palace of the Emir of Yashikira in Baruten Local Government Area of Kwara State, kidnapping several residents including women and children. The incident occurred in the early hours of Monday, May 25, 2026, sparking panic among community members.
Details of the Attack
According to residents, the attack began around 12:40 am and lasted until approximately 1:55 am. The assailants stormed the Yashikira Emirate, set parts of the palace on fire, and abducted members of the royal household. A resident named Nasiru raised the alarm, stating that bandits had set the palace ablaze and kidnapped women and children, including the Emir's wives.
Community Sources Confirm Abductions
Community sources reported that the total number of abductees is no fewer than five people, including the Emir's wives and children. The attackers also damaged rooms within the palace and set vehicles on fire. Residents described the incident as one of the most disturbing attacks in the area in recent times, throwing the community into fear and confusion.
A community statement obtained by Legit.ng read: "With heavy hearts and deep pain, we wish to inform the public that Yashikira town reportedly came under a bandit attack in the early hours of the night. The attackers reportedly entered the palace of the Emir, set vehicles on fire, and damaged rooms within the palace. This heartbreaking incident has thrown the community into fear, sorrow, and distress."
Appeal for Intervention
The community has appealed to security agencies and the Kwara State Government to urgently intervene and strengthen security across Baruten and surrounding communities. They called for immediate action to ensure the safe return of the abducted individuals.
Emir of Ilesha Baruba Condemns Attack
The Emir of Ilesha Baruba, HRH Prof. Halidu Ibrahim Abubakar Sabi Derekureku IV, expressed sympathy for the Emir of Yashikira, HRH Amb. (Dr.) Alhaji Umar Sariki Usman, Sabi Kpasi II. In a sympathy message, the monarch described the attack as an assault on the peace and dignity of the entire community.
"I received with a heavy heart the distressing news of the attack on your palace and the Yashikira community," he said. "An attack on the palace is an attack on the dignity, history, and peace of the entire community you represent." He also prayed for the safe return of those abducted, saying, "We pray for the safety and safe return of all those who were captured. May Allah protect them from harm, ease their ordeal, and reunite them with their families unharmed."
Official Response Pending
As of the time of this report, authorities in Kwara State had not officially commented on the incident. The community remains in a state of anxiety, hoping for swift action from security forces.
