Tension has gripped Yashikira town in Kaiama Local Government Area, Kwara State following threats by armed men holding the Emir of Yashikira’s wives and other captives. The gunmen say they will forcibly marry the women to their commanders if ransom negotiations fail.

Sources tracking the rescue told SaharaReporters the ultimatum was issued after delays in meeting the abductors’ demands. The kidnappers are asking for N150 million in total, which works out to N15 million per person for the estimated 10 victims.

The abductions happened during a coordinated midnight assault on May 24, 2026 targeting both the Emir’s palace and the Yashikira Police Division. Attackers on motorcycles overwhelmed security agents, ransacked the palace for nearly an hour, abducted women and children, and set sections of the building and vehicles ablaze before escaping.

According to a negotiator involved, “They warned that failure to pay will lead to the Emir’s wives and other female victims being given out in marriage to their commanders.” The message has been relayed to vigilantes and security teams, heightening fear among families.

The Kwara Police Command confirmed the incident, stating that at least 10 people were taken and parts of the palace were burned. An officer who survived said the assailants were better armed and more organized than the police on duty that night.

Efforts to secure the victims’ release are still ongoing as the community remains on edge.

Source: SaharaReporters.