Breaking: Bandits kidnap 10 wood workers in Kogi-Ekiti forest, five flee captivity

By Samuel Ogunsona

Ten wood workers has been reportedly abducted by armed men in the Abu forest that borders Ogbe in Kogi State and Irele in Ikole Local Government Area of Ekiti State.

Sources who disclosed to Irohinodua that the incident occured on Friday, May 8, 2026 said the victims were attacked while carrying out their activities in the forest before they were forcefully taken away by the gunmen.

However, five of the abducted persons have reportedly escaped from captivity, while the remaining five are still being held by the bandits.

The attack has heightened fear among residents and workers who rely on the forest for their livelihoods.

Many farmers and wood operators in the area have begun avoiding the forest, raising concerns that the worsening insecurity could disrupt farming and worsen food insecurity in border communities.