A prominent traditional ruler in Kogi State, Oba J.D. Ogunyanda Ilufemiloye, the Obalohun of Okoloke town in Yagba West Local Government Area, has been kidnapped by armed gunmen who stormed his palace in the early hours of Thursday.

According to eyewitnesses, the kidnappers invaded the palace around 12:00 am, firing sporadically before abducting the monarch and taking him to an unknown location.

The Chairman of Yagba West Local Government Authority, Tosin Olokun, confirmed the incident in a statement released on Thursday, describing the abduction as "a direct affront to our cultural values and peaceful coexistence."

"This reprehensible attack on a revered traditional ruler is unacceptable and stands condemned," Olokun stated.

The local government chairman further revealed that security operatives, in collaboration with local hunters, have launched coordinated operations to rescue the abducted monarch and others held captive. "Search efforts are ongoing, with intensified surveillance in key areas," he added.

When contacted about the incident, the Kogi State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP William Ovye Aya, told reporters that the incident had not yet been officially reported to the command. He promised to provide updates once the command receives information from the Divisional Police Office in Yagba West.

The kidnapping comes amid growing concerns about security challenges in Kogi State and highlights the increasing vulnerability of traditional institutions to violent attacks.

Authorities have urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities while assuring the public that all efforts are being made to secure the safe return of the monarch.