Residents of Idofin Odo Ashe in Oke-Ero Local Government Area have fled their homes following a fresh attack by suspected bandits who stormed the community, firing gunshots and causing widespread panic.
The incident, which occurred on Thursday evening, saw the assailants reportedly arrive in large numbers and begin shooting indiscriminately. A local source said the sudden attack forced villagers to run for safety as fear gripped the area.
According to the source, the attackers are believed to be kidnappers who have increasingly targeted rural communities. “They are shooting on sight, and people are running in different directions to escape,” the source said.
Residents described chaotic scenes as families abandoned their homes in a desperate bid to avoid being caught by the attackers.
The latest invasion is part of a troubling pattern of repeated assaults that have plagued the community in recent months.
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The deteriorating security situation has also disrupted essential services, particularly education. Government Secondary School Idofin and several primary schools in the area have reportedly remained closed for about five months due to safety concerns.
Locals say the prolonged closure has left many children at home, raising fears about the long-term impact on their education and future.
Community members have continued to call for urgent intervention from authorities, warning that the persistent attacks have made normal life nearly impossible.
Many residents have either fled or are considering leaving the area entirely.
In a previous protest, residents including youths and elderly women marched through the community to express frustration over the ongoing insecurity.
They carried placards urging the Kwara State Government to take decisive action and restore peace.
An elderly woman who spoke during the protest lamented that the community was gradually being deserted due to repeated attacks and killings.
Security concerns remain high across parts of Kwara State, with residents urging swift action from security agencies to prevent further escalation.
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