Suspected bandits have launched a deadly attack on communities in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State, killing several villagers and setting parts of a traditional ruler’s palace ablaze.
The attackers reportedly invaded Woro and Nuku communities on Tuesday evening, firing sporadically and throwing residents into panic. Witnesses said the assailants moved from house to house, shooting indiscriminately and forcing villagers to flee for safety.
During the raid, several villagers were gunned down, while homes and other properties were vandalised. The bandits also set fire to sections of the palace of the traditional ruler in Woro, causing significant damage. It was not immediately clear whether the monarch was in the palace at the time of the attack.
Residents described the incident as one of the most violent assaults on the area in recent times, noting that the attackers were heavily armed and operated for hours without resistance.
The attack has heightened fears over worsening insecurity in parts of Kwara State, particularly communities bordering forested areas believed to serve as hideouts for criminal gangs.
As of the time of filing this report, security agencies were yet to issue a detailed statement, while residents called on the state and federal governments to urgently reinforce security and protect vulnerable rural communities from further attacks.