Suspected terrorists have killed four soldiers and a member of a local vigilante group following an attack on Kemanji town in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State.
The incident reportedly occurred in the early hours of Monday when gunmen stormed the community and engaged security operatives in a prolonged gun battle.
Residents said the attackers arrived around 3:00 a.m., with heavy exchange of gunfire lasting for about two hours before the assailants retreated.
A local resident, who spoke anonymously, described the attack as sudden and intense, noting that security forces, including soldiers and vigilantes, resisted the assault but suffered casualties.
Another community member confirmed that four soldiers and one vigilante operative were killed during the confrontation.
The attack is the latest in a series of violent incidents in Kaiama Local Government Area, where insecurity has escalated in recent months. Earlier in April, suspected bandits killed members of the National Forest Guard in nearby communities, while previous attacks in February reportedly led to multiple deaths and abductions.
During the latest assault, residents fled their homes, seeking refuge in nearby bushes and neighbouring communities as gunfire spread across the area.
As of the time of filing this report, authorities have yet to issue an official statement confirming details of the attack or possible abductions.
A community leader, A.K. Musa, condemned the worsening insecurity and called on political and traditional leaders to take decisive action to protect residents.
He stressed the need for accountability, urging leaders to prioritise the safety of their communities or step aside if they fail to deliver results.
Meanwhile, a senior police officer in Kaiama confirmed the incident and appealed for calm, assuring residents that security agencies are working to restore order and prevent further attacks.
By Hammed Shittu
