Fear Grips Yoruba Traditional Institutions as Another Monarch Is Abducted — Over 30 Obas Reportedly Flee Palaces

A fresh wave of anxiety has swept across Yoruba land following the reported abduction of another traditional ruler, bringing the number of monarchs allegedly kidnapped or killed in recent times to 11.
The latest incident has reportedly triggered panic among royal fathers, with claims that more than 30 Yoruba monarchs have abandoned their palaces over fears of becoming the next targets of bandits and kidnappers.
According to reports, the affected traditional rulers include:
Oba Kehinde Jacob Falodun – Alagamo of Agamo, Ondo State
Oba Segun Aremu (Olukoro of Koro) – Kwara State
Oba David Babatunde Ogunsakin – Elesun of Esun-Ekiti, Ekiti State
Oba Samuel Olatunji Olusola – Onimojo of Imojo-Ekiti, Ekiti State
Oba Adegoke Adeusi – Olufon of Ifon, Ondo State
Baale of Ogbayo – Kwara State
Oba Salman Olatunji Aweda – Asamu of Olayinka, Kwara State
Oba James Dada Ogunyanda – Obalohun of Okoloke, Kogi State
Oba Kamilu Salami – Ojibara of Bayagan-Ile, Kwara State
Oba Simeon Olaonipekun – Oniwo of Afin, Kwara State
Adeniyi Adelana – Traditional ruler of Ode Oriya Village, Ondo State
The growing insecurity has sparked widespread concern among residents and stakeholders, with many questioning how traditional institutions, once regarded as symbols of authority and community protection, have become increasingly vulnerable to criminal attacks.
The development has also reignited debates about leadership and security, with some observers arguing that ethnic affiliation alone cannot guarantee safety or effective governance, stressing the need for strong institutions and decisive action against insecurity.
As fear spreads across affected communities, calls are mounting for traditional rulers to seek urgent intervention from the Federal Government and security agencies before more royal fathers fall victim to the escalating crisis.