Nigeria TV Info 

Kidnap Terror: 30 Kwara Monarchs Flee Palaces Amid Rising Security Fears

Reports emerging from parts of Kwara State indicate that no fewer than 30 traditional rulers have abandoned their palaces following renewed fears of kidnapping attacks and escalating insecurity across rural communities.

Local sources say the affected monarchs, drawn from various communities across the state, reportedly fled their ancestral seats after intelligence suggested that armed groups were advancing toward several settlements known to host traditional institutions. The situation has sparked panic among residents and disrupted socio-cultural activities in several local government areas.

Community members describe heightened tension over the past few weeks, with increased sightings of suspected bandit groups around forest corridors linking Kwara to neighbouring states. Some palace aides confirmed that many rulers relocated to safer urban centres while others moved under discreet security protection.

Security agencies have reportedly intensified patrols in affected areas, though residents say the response remains insufficient to restore confidence. Traditional councils are now calling for urgent government intervention, including permanent security deployment and intelligence-driven operations to prevent further attacks.

Analysts warn that the development reflects a broader pattern of rural insecurity affecting northern and central Nigeria, where kidnapping for ransom has increasingly targeted community leaders, schools, and travellers.

Authorities are yet to issue an official statewide confirmation of the number of displaced monarchs, but investigations are said to be ongoing.