Panic has swept through Oke-Ode, a community in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, after fresh bandit attacks forced scores of residents to abandon their homes.
Families were seen arriving in Ilorin, the state capital, carrying bags and household items, seeking shelter with relatives and vowing not to return until peace is restored.
The latest assault, which occurred on Sunday, September 28, claimed 13 lives, left many injured, and saw five residents kidnapped. The tragedy has renewed calls for decisive action against insecurity in the state.
Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, who visited the community during the week, described the killings as “tragic” and promised improved security measures.
But community leaders say fear still runs deep. Alhaji Ganiyu O.A. Bello, National President of the Oke-Ode Community Development Association, lamented that “90 per cent of residents have fled” and called the situation “pathetic and devastating.”
Bello urged the government to deploy more security personnel,, approve the installation of a new Elesha (traditional ruler), empower local hunters and vigilantes with arms, and investigate allegations that the vigilante leader, Mr. Victor, withdrew weapons from volunteers a day before the attack.
While commending AbdulRazaq’s development projects, Bello also appealed for the rehabilitation of the Igbaja–Oke-Ode–Shagbe Road to improve accessibility and security.
In response, Governor AbdulRazaq prayed for the victims and praised security agencies, forest guards, and vigilantes for repelling the attackers, assuring residents that their concerns would be addressed.
