The traditional ruler of Owa-Onire in Kwara State, Oba AbdulRahman Fabiyi, has abandoned his palace and is currently living in a remote area on the outskirts of Ilorin due to persistent security threats in his community.
The monarch, who now resides several hours away from his kingdom, said he fled the palace following a series of attacks by armed groups, including a raid on December 31, 2025.
According to him, eight armed men attacked his palace on December 31, 2025, broke the gates and doors, and at gunpoint collected his phone, that of his wife, and some money, but did not take him along, although they abducted two of his palace aides.
He added that he had previously been abducted about a year earlier and held for seven days before being released after a ransom of ₦5 million was paid by members of his community.
He said the earlier abduction may have been the reason the attackers did not take him during the December 31, 2025 incident, noting that they instead went away with two of his aides.
Oba Fabiyi said he has no plans to return to his palace unless adequate security measures are put in place, stressing that repeated appeals have been made to the government to provide security in the community.
He noted that the absence of a police station or any formal security outfit has left the community vulnerable to attacks.
He also highlighted the lack of forest guards and the limited capacity of local vigilantes to effectively respond to security threats, insisting that he would not return to the palace without proper security arrangements.
The monarch appealed to the government to provide security, adding that the community is willing to complement official efforts with local vigilante groups.
He further disclosed that insecurity has forced several traditional rulers in neighbouring communities to abandon their domains.
According to him, while monarchs previously visited their communities occasionally, many have now completely relocated due to the worsening security situation, citing areas such as Owa Kajola, Oke-Oyin, and Ofaro.
Despite his displacement, Oba Fabiyi said he continues to perform his traditional duties remotely.
He explained that residents of his community reach out to him daily for dispute resolution, and in cases requiring physical presence, they travel to meet him at his current location.
He added that residents have resorted to coping strategies, splitting their time between the community and safer neighbouring areas as insecurity continues to disrupt normal life.
