The Aniwo 1 of Aafin community, Ile-Ire District, Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, Oba Simeon Olaonipekun and one of his sons, Olaolu, who is currently observing his National Youth Service Corps, have reportedly been kidnapped in a violent attack on the palace.
The incident occurred at about 8:00pm on Wednesday, December 31, when armed men reportedly invaded the palace, firing sporadically and causing panic among residents of the community.
The attackers appeared to have come specifically for the monarch and members of his household.
A source who witnessed the attack said unusual movements were noticed outside the palace shortly before the gunmen began shooting.
“We started locking doors and switching off lights, but once they realised this, they started shooting and forced their way into the palace,” the source said.
The attackers reportedly demanded to see the monarch, who later came out, while also calling for his wife, Felicia Olaonipekun, who was said to have sustained a gunshot wound during the attack.
The monarch’s son, Olaolu, who is currently serving under the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), was also abducted after he emerged from hiding.
“There were about 10 of us in the palace at the time because of the holidays. Everyone was hiding. After the gunmen left, we rushed the Olori to the hospital that same night,” the source added.
The community’s vigilante group was reportedly unable to repel the attackers, as only two members were on duty and were overpowered by the gunmen’s superior firepower.
The incident was said to have been reported to several police formations, including divisions in Owu Isin and Ijara Isin, as well as local security outfits in neighbouring communities.
Residents of Aafin community have appealed to the state government and security agencies to intensify efforts to secure the safe release of the monarch and his son.