Children, Women Abducted as Bandits Storm Kwara Emir’s Palace, Set Building Ablaze
A violent overnight attack on Yashikira in Baruten Local Government Area of Kwara State has raised serious child protection concerns after armed bandits abducted women and children and set part of the Emir’s palace on fire.
The coordinated assault occurred around 2:00am on Monday, targeting both the Yashikira Police Divisional Headquarters and the Emir’s palace. The Emir reportedly escaped unharmed, but the community was thrown into chaos.
Eyewitnesses said heavily armed attackers stormed the area in large numbers and operated for several minutes under sustained gunfire. Residents, including families with children, fled into nearby bushes for safety.
Local officials confirmed that about ten people were abducted during the raid. Among them were women and children, though authorities say full details are still being compiled.
The incident has intensified concerns over the safety of children in vulnerable border communities, where repeated armed attacks have disrupted family life, education, and access to basic protection services.
Child protection advocates warn that such violent raids expose children to trauma, exploitation, displacement, and long-term psychological harm. They stress that children in conflict-affected communities require urgent safeguarding support and coordinated emergency response systems.
Baruten Local Government Chairman, Issa Jubril, confirmed that the Emir escaped during the attack and said security agencies have been alerted. He also acknowledged that women and children were among those taken but did not provide exact figures.
The Kwara State Police Command confirmed the incident and said suspected bandits carried out the attack in a coordinated manner. Security agencies, including police tactical units, the military, forest guards, and vigilantes, have since launched a rescue operation.
Authorities say surveillance and bush-combing operations are ongoing to track the attackers and secure the release of the abducted victims.
As investigations continue, the attack has renewed calls for stronger child protection measures in high-risk communities, particularly in areas repeatedly affected by armed violence.
