JUST IN: Terrorists Run Riot in Kwara, Kill 10 Vigilantes, Abduct Several Residents

At least 10 vigilantes, including forest guards, have been killed and several villagers abducted following a deadly attack by suspected armed bandits in Oke-Ode community, Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State.

Residents reported that the assailants stormed the agrarian town in large numbers in the early hours of Sunday, engaging vigilantes in a fierce confrontation. The local security volunteers, who often serve as the first line of defense in rural areas due to the absence of consistent military presence, were reportedly overwhelmed by the attackers.

A video obtained by SaharaReporters shows multiple lifeless bodies lying in pools of blood as grieving family members and community members gathered at the scene. A local source described the situation as “terrible,” lamenting the recent withdrawal of Nigerian soldiers who had previously been stationed nearby.

“We don’t know why they withdrew the soldiers. Now our people are exposed. Ten people were killed and several others kidnapped. The situation is now terrible,” the source said.

The attack has heightened fear among residents who rely heavily on vigilante groups for protection amid recurring bandit raids across Kwara South and North.

Confirming the incident, Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s press secretary, Rafiu Ajakaye, described the killings as “devastating beyond words.” In a WhatsApp message, he added:

“This is sad. Devastating beyond words. Please be patient. It could have been worse without the effort of the forest guards. Three guards died, one got injured. Many of the attackers also died.”

This tragedy follows a similar incident in Edu Local Government Area, where bandits abducted a local businessman, Suleiman Ndana, during a midnight raid on Tsaragi community. Residents said Ndana, who recently built a fuel station in Yana Kokonna, was targeted and taken to an unknown location, leaving the community in fear and uncertainty.