Kwara Govt Confirms Death of Notorious Kidnap Kingpin “Maidawa” in NAF Airstrikes!

Kwara Govt Confirms Death of Notorious Kidnap Kingpin “Maidawa” in NAF Airstrikes!

Reported by Marian Opeyemi Fasesan | Sele Media Africa

The Kwara State Government has affirmed that a notorious kidnap kingpin known as “Maidawa” and several of his foot soldiers were eliminated during recent airstrikes by the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) in forest zones around Isanlu‑Isin and neighboring parts of Kogi State.

What the State Says

• The government stated that Maidawa had long operated out of remote hideouts along the Kwara–Kogi axis, terrorizing communities through kidnappings and violent attacks.
• The NAF-led airstrike was described as a precision operation based on credible intelligence.
• Officials also dismissed reports that the DSS had disarmed local vigilantes in Oke‑Ode, calling such claims “entirely false.”

Confirmed Airstrikes & Casualties

• Reports confirm NAF air raids in areas like Babanla, Oke‑Ode, and forest corridors near the state border, resulting in the deaths of multiple suspected bandits.
• The Air Force said reconnaissance and support missions were carried out against “identified hostile elements.”
• What We Don’t Yet Know
• Authorities have not provided independent verification or photographic evidence confirming Maidawa’s identity.
• Casualty figures remain unconfirmed.
• It’s unclear whether any ground troops assisted or if civilians were caught in the crossfire.

Citations:

1. Independent Nigeria independent.ng/dss-didnt-disarm-vigilantes-in-kwara-community-state-govt
2. Vanguard News – vanguardngr.com/2025/09/naf-airstrikes-kill-scores-of-bandits-in-kwara-communities

About The Author

Marian Opeyemi Fasesan

editor

Marian Opeyemi Fasesan is a dynamic journalist and editorial leader committed to excellence in news reporting and storytelling. As the Editor-in-Chief of Sele Media Africa, she ensures daily operations run smoothly while upholding the highest editorial standards. With a strong eye for detail and deep understanding of audience engagement, Marian coordinates content across platforms, guiding teams to produce compelling, timely, and credible news. Her leadership reflects the heart of Sele Media Africa’s mission—to inform, inspire, and elevate voices across the continent.

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