Reactions As Bandits Kill 12 Vigilantes, Village Head in Kwara Attack

Armed bandits launched a deadly assault on a local security camp in Oke-Ode, Kwara State, on September 28, killing 11 vigilante forest guards and the Baale of Ogbayo community.

The Kwara State Police Command confirmed the 12 fatalities, adding that several residents were abducted and others sustained injuries during the attack. The assailants reportedly fled into nearby forests after the clash.

In response, the Nigerian Air Force carried out airstrikes on suspected bandit hideouts on September 29. Security forces have since intensified a manhunt for the perpetrators.

Reacting to the killings, opposition leader Peter Obi expressed grief and called for urgent national action.

“It is with a heavy heart that I received the news of the tragic killings in Oke-Ode, Kwara State, where innocent lives, including vigilantes and the Baale of Ogbayo, were cut short in yet another mindless act of violence from armed bandits terrorising our nation.

Once again, our nation is thrown into mourning as innocent lives are cut short. These repeated attacks show the urgent need for an emergency on national security. No Nigerian should have to live in fear in their own home. We cannot continue to normalise tragedy.

My heart goes out to the Governor and the people of Kwara State. I reassure you that you are not alone. And to the grieving families, please accept my deepest condolences. May you find strength and comfort in this difficult time and may the souls of the departed rest in perfect peace,” Obi said.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar also condemned the killings, warning against the spread of insecurity.

“The tempo of armed attacks in some parts of Kwara State, and indeed in different parts of the country, is alarming. The recent being the reported tragic killings at Oke-Ode where innocent lives, including vigilantes and the traditional ruler of Ogbayo community, were killed by rampaging bandits.

I wish to once again make a call to relevant security agencies and policy makers to not let the map of insecurity fester, as it seems.

I would implore that all hands are on deck to ensure that our beloved Kwara State and its people are not just protected but also be the bulwark against a raging dark army of armed criminals. Kwara is a gateway, and we must fight for its safety,” Atiku said.

Both leaders urged the Federal Government to intensify efforts to end the worsening menace of banditry across the country.

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