Gunmen suspected to be kidnappers on Thursday invaded palace of the Olukoro of Koro in Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara State, killed Oba Peter Segun Aremu, and kidnap his wife and two others.
The traditional ruler, said to be a retired army General was reportedly shot dead in his palace on Thursday night by some unknown gunmen, who also whisked away his wife and two others.
Koro in Kwara is the neighbour town of Irele/Oke Ako/Ipao/Oke Aiyedun and Ikole of Ekiti State. These Kwara/Ekiti brothers share farm boundaries.They are the communities where three traditional rulers were attacked and two of them killed few days ago. It has become the hub of killing and kidnappings in recent time.
The incident was confirmed by the state government.
In a statement by the Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to Governor Abdulrahman AbdulRazaq, the governor described the incident as reckless, shocking and abominable.
Kwara governor, who is also the chairman of the Nigeria Governors Forum, condemned the killing of the Ekiti monarch as well as abduction of his wife and two others.
He also charged the security agencies not to spare any resources to track down the perpetrators, free the spouse and others taken away, and bring them to book.
“We will certainly get the perpetrators and ensure that this is their last crime against humanity,” the governor said, adding, “My profound condolences go to the people of Koro. Our hearts are broken, and we stand by them at this time and always”.
The state Commissioner of Police, Mr. Victor Olaiya, who also confirmed the incident early Friday morning, assured of a swift action by the Kwara State Police.
“Immediate and intensive investigations are underway to apprehend those criminals for this reprehensible act. We assure the public that no stone will be left unturned in ensuring that the perpetrators are brought to justice swiftly.
“Security measures in the Koro community have been intensified, tactical teams are being mobilized to beef up security to ensure the safety and well-being of residents.”
The CP, in a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Toun Ejire-Adeyemi, urged the public to remain calm, vigilant, and cooperativ, “as we work tirelessly to unravel this matter; arrest and charge the culprits to court. The Kwara State Police Force remains resolute in its commitment to safeguarding lives and property.
“It is with deep sorrow that I confirm the unfortunate incident that unfolded today in Koro, Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara State. Gunmen invaded the palace of the Onikoro, Oba Aremu Olusegun Cole resulting in the tragic loss of his life and the abduction of his wife and one other.
“The Kwara State Police Command, under the leadership of The Commissioner of Police CP Victor OLAIYA, expresses his heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and the entire community affected by this heinous act. Our prayers are with them during this challenging time”.