Nine travelers were kidnapped by bandits on the Isanlu Makutu Ilorin highway, raising concerns.
Communities urge swift action as kidnappings increase across Kogi and Kwara border routes recently daily.
Suspected bandits have reportedly abducted nine travelers on the Isanlu Makutu–Ilorin route, heightening fears over worsening security challenges in Kogi and Kwara border communities.
The victims were said to be heading towards Ilorin on Saturday when their vehicle was intercepted between Egbe in Kogi State and Eruku in Kwara State. Those taken away include a cleric, his wife, and a woman identified as Iyabode Asubiojo.
Sources familiar with the incident explained that armed men suddenly appeared from the surrounding bushes and fired at the moving bus, forcing the driver to stop before dragging the passengers into the nearby forest.
This recent abduction follows a pattern of violent attacks on motorists along the Kogi–Kwara highway. The corridor has become notorious for kidnappings and roadside shootings in recent times, leaving residents and commuters deeply anxious.
Earlier reports indicated a similar ambush on a commercial bus travelling through the same stretch of road. Eyewitness accounts described how gunmen in large numbers opened fire without warning, leaving several bullet marks on the vehicle. The driver, who is believed to be from Isanlu, sustained gunshot injuries during that attack. Other passengers included a resident of Egbe and a trader whose identity was yet to be confirmed.
Community members have urged local authorities, especially the leadership of Yagba East and Yagba West Local Government Areas, to work together and strengthen security measures across the border region. They fear that unless urgent action is taken, more lives will be put at risk by the rising activities of armed groups terrorizing the area.
