Kwara Police Launch Manhunt After Mob Violence Leaves Multiple Dead, Buildings Torched in Ilesha Baruba

The Kwara State Police Command has launched a full-scale manhunt for suspects involved in a wave of deadly reprisal attacks, arson, and extra-judicial killings that rocked Ilesha Baruba in Baruten Local Government Area of the state.

According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, the violence erupted on Friday, May 30, 2026, following a fatal altercation between an unidentified Fulani man and a respected Islamic scholar, Alhaji Mohammed Ilyasu.

Police investigations revealed that both men sustained severe machete wounds during the confrontation and were rushed to a hospital for emergency treatment. However, Alhaji Ilyasu was confirmed dead on arrival, while the unidentified assailant later died while receiving medical care.

The situation reportedly escalated when some aggrieved youths stormed the hospital, seized the corpse of the deceased assailant, and set it ablaze. In what authorities described as a disturbing act of mob justice, another man passing through the area was allegedly attacked and burned to death by the violent crowd.

The unrest further intensified as the mob allegedly targeted members of the Fulani community, setting fire to about ten buildings, including the residence of the Ardo Fulani, Alhaji Hassan.

Following reports of the violence, security operatives comprising police personnel and military officers were immediately deployed to the community. The joint operation successfully restored calm and prevented further escalation of the crisis.

The Commissioner of Police, Kwara State Command, CP Ojo Adekimi, strongly condemned the incidents, describing the actions of the mob as criminal, barbaric, and a serious violation of the rule of law.

He stressed that no individual or group has the authority to administer justice outside the legal framework, regardless of the circumstances surrounding any dispute.

The police chief assured residents that a comprehensive investigation is underway to identify and apprehend all those involved in the retaliatory attacks, arson, and unlawful killings.

“The perpetrators will be identified, arrested, and prosecuted in accordance with the law,” the statement said.

CP Adekimi also urged residents of the area to remain calm and avoid actions capable of inciting further violence or ethnic tensions. He reaffirmed the commitment of the Kwara State Police Command to protecting lives and property without discrimination and ensuring that justice is served.

Security presence has been reinforced in Ilesha Baruba, while authorities continue to monitor the situation closely to prevent any recurrence of violence.