Two Kwara Government Officials Abducted By Gunmen Regain Freedom

Ilorin, Kwara State– Two senior officials of the Oke Ero Local Government Area have been freed after being kidnapped by unknown gunmen last week.

Barrister Omoladun Elizabeth Arinde, Head of the Legal Department, and Alhaji Musibau Amuda, Director of Personnel Management, were released unharmed, an official statement announced on Monday.

In a statement signed by the Executive Chairman of Oke Ero LGA, Hon. James Abiodun Fadipe, the local government expressed “immense relief and gratitude” for the safe return of both officers.

“This is indeed the Lord’s doing,” the statement declared, extending thanks to God and everyone who rallied behind the council during the ordeal.

“On behalf of the Executive Chairman of Oke Ero Local Government, Hon. James Abiodun Fadipe, we extend our heartfelt appreciation and sincere gratitude to the Almighty God for His mercy and protection over our dear Director of Personnel Management, Alhaji Musibau Amuda, and the Local Government Legal Officer, Barrister Omoladun Elizabeth Arinde, who have safely returned to us in good health. This is indeed the Lord’s doing, and we are filled with joy and thanksgiving.

Hon. Fadipe specifically praised the Executive Governor of Kwara State, Mallam Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq CON, and the leadership of the Association of Local Government of Nigeria (ALGON) for their “steadfast support.”

He also acknowledged the prayers and efforts of religious leaders, traditional rulers, security operatives, political figures, and all well-wishers who “stood by us in prayer, encouragement, and action.”

“May the Almighty God continue to bless you all abundantly,” Fadipe added, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to the peace, progress, and development of Oke Ero.

He called on residents to remain vigilant and united as the council works to strengthen security measures and prevent future incidents.

Previously, barrister Elizabeth Arinde, Head of the Legal Department at Oke Ero Local Government in Kwara State, were reportedly been kidnapped by some gunmen.

According to a statement from the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and signed by S.M.H Kosemani Esq, the Chairman NBA, Ilorin Branch, Barrister Arinde was abducted on Friday, April 25, 2025, while travelling from Oke Ero Local Government Area to Ilorin, alongside the Deputy Permanent Secretary (DPM) of the Local Government.

“We are deeply concerned to inform you that Barrister Elizabeth Arinde, Head of the Legal Department at Oke Ero Local Government in Kwara State, has been kidnapped,” the NBA statement said.