NAF’s Multiple Bombardments Neutralize Notorious Kidnap Kingpin “Maidawa”, Others in Kwara State!

NAF’s Multiple Bombardments Neutralize Notorious Kidnap Kingpin “Maidawa”, Others in Kwara State!

Reported by Marian opeyemi Fasesan | Sele Media Africa

The Kwara State Government has confirmed that a notorious kidnap lord known as “Maidawa,” along with several of his foot soldiers, was killed in a series of airstrikes conducted by the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) in forested areas around Isanlu‑Isin and the border with Kogi State. [1]

Official Confirmation & Tactical Details

• According to a press statement from the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Rafiu Ajakaiye, intercepted communications confirmed Maidawa’s elimination on September 30 during ongoing operations. [1]
• The engagement was targeted in joint operations involving the NAF and ground elements pushing into known hideouts of the criminal network. [1]
• It was further disclosed that news of Maidawa’s death was spread among criminal ranks by another gang leader, Baccujo, during conversation in a remote area. [1] Background & Implications
• Maidawa had been a key figure in kidnappings and banditry in Kwara and neighboring regions, operating from remote forest enclaves. [1]
• The operation is part of a broader push across all affected LGAs in Kwara—such as Ifelodun, Ekiti, Isin, Edu, and Patigi—to dismantle criminal hideouts and rescue victims. [1]
• The state also rejected claims that the Department of State Services (DSS) had earlier disarmed local vigilantes in areas prior to air operations. [1] What to Watch
• Whether independent verification (e.g. forensic or media access) will corroborate the government’s claims.
• Potential retaliatory attacks or splintering of Maidawa’s network following leadership elimination.
• Review of civilian casualty claims, displacement, and security coverage in neighboring communities.
• Continued air‑ground coordination and follow-up missions to eliminate remnants of the gang.

Citations:

1. Vanguard News: www.vanguardngr.com/2025/10/kwara-govt-confirms-death-of-notorious-kidnap-kingpin-maidawa-in-naf-airstrikes?utm_source=chatgpt.com

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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