Local Vigilantes Repel Bandits’ Fresh Attack on Kwara Community

Local Vigilantes Repel Bandits’ Fresh Attack on Kwara Community

Local vigilantes in Kwara State have once again repelled an attack by suspected bandits on Oyate community in the Oro-Ago area of Ifelodun Local Government Area.

The latest incident, which occurred on Monday, is the second failed attack on the community within two weeks, raising concerns over rising insecurity in the area.

Residents said the armed men stormed the community and fired sporadically in an attempt to instil fear, but were confronted by local security personnel who forced them to retreat.

A similar attack had taken place the previous week, when the gunmen reportedly disrupted Jumat prayers before being resisted by vigilantes and other local security operatives.

Security sources indicated that the attackers are believed to have crossed into Kwara from neighbouring Kogi State, exploiting the porous boundary between both states to launch raids on border communities.

Despite ongoing military operations, the attacks have persisted. The Nigerian Army had recently launched “Operation Savannah Shield” to tackle criminal activities and dismantle bandit enclaves in parts of Kwara and Niger states.

The operation, initiated by the Defence Headquarters in collaboration with the Army and other security agencies, followed a directive to intensify efforts against armed groups operating in the region.

Military authorities had earlier vowed to bring perpetrators of violent attacks in affected communities to justice, including those linked to the killing of villagers in Woro, Kaiama Local Government Area.

Residents of Oyate and surrounding communities continue to rely heavily on local vigilantes for immediate protection, as calls grow for stronger security presence to prevent further incursions.