Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq is mourning a forest guard who was killed during a confrontation with suspected kidnappers in the Koro community of Ekiti Local Government Area.
The guard, identified as Omotosho Olawuyi Samuel, died on Sunday, February 8, 2026, during a security operation in a forest near Koro, a border town close to Kogi State, according to state officials.
Authorities say a joint team of forest guards, local hunters and vigilantes had acted on intelligence reports about armed bandits operating in the area. During the operation, the team was reportedly ambushed, and Samuel was killed in an exchange of gunfire.
In a statement released Wednesday in Ilorin by his Chief Press Secretary, Rafiu Ajakaye, Governor AbdulRazaq described the incident as devastating and paid tribute to the slain guard.
He also announced a 10 million naira support fund for Samuel’s family in recognition of what he called the operative’s sacrifice.
“He is our hero, and we ask God to give succour to his family,” the governor said, offering condolences to the family and praising the courage of security personnel and local volunteers involved in the operation.
Meanwhile, the state Commissioner of Police, Adekimi Ojo, said the incident was a “bush encounter” and not a direct attack on Koro township. He added that Samuel’s AK-47 rifle and 15 rounds of ammunition were recovered intact.
Ojo noted that police had not been informed before the operation began and suggested the possibility of friendly fire, though no further details were immediately available.
