Fresh Tragedy as Bandits Sack Ogba-Ayo Community in Kwara, Governor AbdulRazaq Demands More Troops

Tension has gripped Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State after armed bandits stormed Ogba-Ayo community in Oke-Ode town, killing several residents, including the community head (Baale) and his two children, in the early hours of Sunday.

The attack, which took place around 7:35 am, left scores dead while some others, including a medical practitioner identified as Dr. Femi (popularly called Baba Gold), remain missing.

Residents described the assault as one of the bloodiest in recent times, forcing many families to flee their ancestral homes.

A community elder, who narrowly escaped the attack told reporters, “Our people are living in fear; these criminals come at will, and nobody feels safe anymore.”

Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, reacting to the incident through his Chief Press Secretary, Rafiu Ajakaye, condemned the killings and called for urgent military reinforcement in Kwara South and North to repel the criminals.

He lamented the loss of lives, including those of the local forest guards who put up what he described as a “spirited resistance” against the attackers.

“My heartfelt condolences go to the families. No word can adequately capture the depth of my sadness. Our people are understandably concerned about the situation, and I wholeheartedly share in this grief,” the Governor said.

AbdulRazaq commended the bravery of the local hunters and forest guards who stood their ground despite losing five of their members.

“We will forever be grateful to them as heroes,” he added, urging residents to remain calm and avoid reprisal actions.

In a swift response, the Army Headquarters has ordered the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 2 Division, Ibadan, to immediately relocate to Kwara to coordinate military operations against the bandits.

The Kwara Police Command was yet to release an official statement on the attack at the time of filing this report.