Kwara State Police have confirmed the abduction of a newlywed couple, Reverend Abiodun David and his wife Funmilayo Bamidele, during a cross-state journey along the Kwara-Kogi border on Saturday evening. The incident occurred as the pair returned from an engagement ceremony in Eruku, Kogi State, when their vehicle was intercepted by armed men along the Iyemero-Eruku Road, a known border route between Kwara and Kogi. The couple, who had initially planned to take the Isanlu Road, opted for an alternate route to drop off the best man and other attendees in Iyamoye, Kogi State, before proceeding to their destination. Four additional individuals were also taken during the attack, though details about their condition and location remain unconfirmed as of press time.
Adekimi Ojo, Kwara State Commissioner of Police, confirmed the abduction on Sunday and revealed that military personnel had been deployed to search the surrounding bush for the victims. Ojo stated that the vehicle used by the couple was later discovered parked at an abandoned police station in Ayetoro, Ekiti State, raising questions about the perpetrators' potential routes and connections. Joint operations involving police from Kwara, Kogi, and Ekiti states are underway, as the incident highlights persistent security challenges in border communities. A photograph of the abducted couple has circulated online, intensifying public concern over the safety of travelers in the region.
The case underscores broader anxieties about cross-state criminal activity and the vulnerability of remote routes. Reverend Abiodun David, a religious leader, and his wife Funmilayo Bamidele’s abduction has drawn attention to the risks faced by individuals traversing border areas, where law enforcement presence is often limited. While authorities have not yet disclosed the identities of the suspects, the involvement of multiple states in the investigation reflects the complexity of addressing such crimes. The public awaits updates on the fate of the four additional passengers, whose release remains uncertain.
As the search continues, the incident has reignited calls for improved security measures along border corridors. Local communities have expressed frustration over the frequency of such attacks, which they attribute to inadequate policing and resource allocation. The Kwara State Police have urged residents to report any suspicious activities, while emphasizing their commitment to resolving the case. The situation remains under close surveillance, with authorities working to ensure the safe return of all abducted individuals. The incident also raises questions about the effectiveness of existing border security protocols in preventing similar attacks in the future.