From Taiye Joseph, Ilorin
The Emir of Yashikira in Kwara North Senatorial District, Alhaji Umar Seriki Usman, has appealed to the Federal and Kwara State governments to strengthen security in the community following the release of seven members of his royal family abducted by armed bandits.
The monarch disclosed that his three wives and four children were among the victims released on Wednesday, months after bandits invaded his palace earlier this year.
Speaking with journalist, the emir said the intervention of youths from Yashikira, who addressed a press conference in Abuja, helped to draw the attention of the Federal Government to the plight of the abducted residents.
He expressed appreciation to the Federal and state governments for the eventual release of the victims, while acknowledging efforts made by the Kwara State Government.
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“We thank God and appreciate the federal and state governments for the release of the abductees.
“Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq of Kwara State, made a representation to the Federal Government, which did not work until our youths in Abuja addressed the press conference, which drew the attention of the government to the situation on the ground,” he said.
On whether ransom was paid for the release of the victims, the monarch said he could not confirm that, but disclosed that the bandits had demanded N150 million for each captive.
Umar Seriki, however, said the release occurred without any exchange of gunfire between the security forces and the abductors.
Asked about the current security situation in Yashikira, the emir expressed concern that residents remained vulnerable despite the release of the victims.
He appealed to the relevant authorities to intensify security operations in the area and ensure that the bandits were driven out of the community.
“We are all happy about the development, but nobody feels secure because they are still with us and we don’t know them,” the monarch added.
