A tragic incident occurred in Kwara State, Nigeria, where a newlywed couple and four others were abducted by suspected bandits. Reverend Abiodun David and his bride, Funmilayo Bamidele, had attended their engagement ceremony in Eruku and were traveling back when they were intercepted by armed men along the Eruku-Iyemero Road. This route connects parts of Kwara and Kogi states.
The abduction took place on September 27, 2026, and the victims were taken away by the bandits. Four other people who were passengers in the same vehicle were also abducted, although their identities and relationship with the couple have not been disclosed. The vehicle was initially expected to take the Isanlu route but was diverted to drop off the best man and some members of the group at Iyamoye in Kogi State.
The vehicle was later found abandoned near an old police facility in Ayetoro, Ekiti State. This prompted security agencies from Kwara, Kogi, and Ekiti states to coordinate efforts to rescue the victims due to the area's proximity to the three states. The Kwara State Commissioner of Police, Adekimi Ojo, confirmed the abduction and stated that security operatives had launched a rescue operation.
According to Commissioner Ojo, troops were combing surrounding areas as part of efforts to secure the release of the victims. As of the latest reports, authorities had not announced the rescue of the victims or disclosed whether the abductors had made any ransom demands. The incident adds to growing concerns over insecurity along some inter-state routes, particularly in border communities.
The incident highlights the rising insecurity in Nigeria, particularly in areas where criminal groups have exploited difficult terrain to carry out attacks. The abduction of the newlywed couple and four others has sparked widespread concern and calls for increased security measures along inter-state routes. Authorities have been urged to take decisive action to address the issue.
The police and military have intensified efforts to rescue the victims and apprehend the attackers. The incident has also raised concerns about the safety of travelers along inter-state routes, particularly in border communities where banditry has become a major challenge.
The abduction of Reverend Abiodun David, his bride, and four others is a reminder of the need for increased security measures to protect travelers and residents in Nigeria. Authorities have assured the public that they are doing everything possible to rescue the victims and bring the perpetrators to justice.
Key points
- Newlywed couple Reverend Abiodun David and Funmilayo Bamidele were abducted along with four others in Kwara State.
- The abduction took place while the victims were returning from their engagement ceremony.
- Authorities have launched a rescue operation and are working to secure the release of the victims.
