Three people have been detained by Kwara State police command agents in connection with a suspected arson attack on a residential building in the state capital of Ilorin due to purported religious concerns. They are Yekini Olohuntele, Abubakar Salihu, and Salihu Saka. 

According to SP Adetoun Ejire Adeyemi, the state police command spokesperson in Ilorin on Saturday, the event happened at approximately 7 p.m. on January 1, 2026, in the Isale-Koto district of the city.

The spokesperson said “The Kwara State Police Command is aware of a video circulating online. The video depicts an elderly woman saying her place of residence was completely razed by fire.

”The Command has commenced thorough investigation into the fire incident suspected to be an act of arson at Isale Koko Area, Ilorin.

”On 2nd January, 2026 at about 10:00pm, a resident, Mrs. T.A Olorisha reported at C Division, Oja Oba, that her house was set ablaze by unknown persons. The incident was said to have occurred on 1st January, 2026 at about 7:00pm, while she was away.”

The complainant said that because she is a traditional worshipper, she received threats in November 2025 from a number of people, including Alhaji Salihu Saka, 63, Alhaji Abubakar Salihu, 58, and Alhaji Yekini Olohuntele, 67, purportedly due to religious disagreements.

“All three suspects are currently in police custody, aiding investigations.

”No life was lost, as no one was inside the building at the time of the incident. The value of the property destroyed is yet to be ascertained,” the spokesperson added.

The Command reassured the public that all accusations are being thoroughly investigated and that coordinated measures are being made to capture the other offenders. 

Regardless of religious or cultural convictions, the police command reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding everyone's life, property, and fundamental rights. 

It also urged the public to maintain composure and offer helpful information that could support the investigation.

Source