Youths and the elderly in the Lafiagi area of Edu Local Government, Kwara State, on Monday, took to the streets, protesting what they called unending kidnapping in the area.

The tense situation followed the abduction of a prominent agrochemical dealer, popularly called Alhaji Chemical.

Alhaji Chemical was reportedly taken from his home in Taiwo area around 1:00 a.m. on Sunday by suspected Fulani bandits.

According to information, the attackers came on motorcycles and later subdued the local vigilantes.

A source said, “When the assailants came on motorcycles, they started shooting sporadically and eventually overpowered local vigilantes before abducting the businessman.”

Sources in the community said the operation was targeted and well-planned, given the victim’s prominence and the precision of the attack.

Our reporter learnt that the development has sparked fresh anxiety in Lafiagi, where residents say cases of kidnapping have become increasingly frequent.

Angry residents staged protests on Monday, blocking roads, making bonfires at strategic points and demanding urgent government intervention.

The protesters cited the recent abduction of a young man operating a Point of Sale (POS) in the local government as further evidence of growing insecurity in the area.

“The situation is getting out of hand, we can’t sleep with our two eyes closed anymore. People are being taken almost weekly now,” a protester said.

Meanwhile, residents have urged security agencies to intensify patrols, track down the kidnappers, and ensure the safe return of those abducted. (The Guardian)