Bandits have launched a coordinated midnight assault on Yashikira in Baruten Local Government Area of Kwara State, targeting both a police divisional headquarters and the palace of the Emir, which was partially razed.
The attack left residents in panic and shook the traditional institution.
The incident reportedly occurred around 2:00am on Monday.
The attackers stormed the community in large numbers, striking simultaneously at the Yashikira Police Divisional Headquarters and the Emir of Yashikira Palace.
Eyewitnesses said the assailants operated for several minutes under heavy gunfire, forcing residents to flee into surrounding bushes for safety as sporadic gunshots echoed across the community.
During the raid, about 10 persons were abducted and taken to an unknown destination by the armed group.
However, the Emir of Yashikira reportedly escaped the attack unharmed despite confusion within the palace during the invasion.
The attack has heightened fears in Baruten Local Government Area, a border community that has repeatedly come under attacks from armed groups exploiting its difficult terrain and proximity to inter-state routes.
Local authorities confirmed that some women and children were among those abducted, although the exact number of victims was yet to be confirmed as of press time.
Speaking on the incident, the Chairman of Baruten Local Government Area, Issa Jubril, confirmed that the monarch escaped during the attack.
He also confirmed that some women and children from the palace were abducted, although he said he could not immediately provide the exact number and identities of the victims.
According to him, the Emir is safe and calm has gradually returned to the community following efforts to alert relevant security agencies.
Confirming the attack, the Kwara State Police Command said suspected bandits carried out the operation in a coordinated manner during the early hours of Monday.
The Police Public Relations Officer, Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, disclosed that the Commissioner of Police, Ojo Adekimi, had ordered a full-scale intelligence-driven operation involving police tactical teams, military personnel, forest guards, and vigilante groups.
She said the operation was aimed at rescuing the abducted victims and tracking down the attackers.
The command also assured residents that security deployment had been reinforced across vulnerable communities in the state.
Ejire-Adeyemi added that surveillance and bush-combing operations were ongoing to prevent further attacks and ensure the safe return of the abducted victims.
