Residents of Eleyin in Isanlu-Isin, Isin Local Government Area of Kwara State, on Saturday staged a massive protest, blocking a major road to demand urgent government intervention following a spate of kidnappings in the area.
According to eyewitnesses, gunmen suspected to be terrorists abducted seven people — three wives, their husband, and three children — from the community. Despite reportedly paying a ransom of ₦20 million, the victims have not been released, and some of those who delivered the ransom were also seized.
Videos circulating online show dozens of angry residents barricading the road, halting vehicular movement and vowing to sustain the blockade until authorities take concrete steps to secure the release of the victims and restore safety.
Community members reported that abductions have become frequent in recent weeks, with three additional children reportedly kidnapped on Wednesday, sparking widespread fear.
“We are calling on Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq and President Bola Tinubu to urgently come to our rescue,” one protester said. “If the government fails to act, we will be forced to take all necessary steps to protect ourselves.”
Local leaders and demonstrators are demanding an immediate deployment of security personnel to Isin and neighboring local government areas to curb the worsening wave of kidnappings.
The protests come amid growing criticism of Kwara South’s political leadership, as council chairmen under the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) have been accused of prioritizing early campaign activities for the 2027 governorship election over addressing the security crisis.
Residents expressed frustration, saying politicians appear disconnected from the reality on the ground. “While we bury our dead and raise ransom money for kidnapped relatives, they are busy sharing campaign caps,” one resident lamented.
Kwara South, which includes Offa, Oyun, Isin, Ifelodun, Irepodun, Ekiti, and Oke-Ero LGAs, has faced relentless attacks since January, with many residents fleeing their homes. Communities have reportedly paid millions of naira to secure the release of abducted loved ones, further worsening their economic hardship.
The protesters have vowed to keep the road closed until they see decisive action from both state and federal authorities to secure their communities.
