Scores of terrorists on Friday launched a deadly attack on Nuku community in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State, killing a forest guard commander and five other members during the assault.
The attackers reportedly stormed the community in the early hours, unleashing violence on residents and security personnel. During the incident, the forest guards engaged the assailants but suffered casualties, with their commander and five members confirmed dead.
The terrorists also destroyed motorcycles belonging to the guards, burned several buildings, and set ablaze police patrol vehicles in the area, leaving the community in panic as residents fled for safety.
A senior officer at the Kaiama Divisional Police Headquarters confirmed the attack, stating that authorities had been briefed while urging residents to remain calm despite the devastating nature of the incident.
Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq expressed deep sorrow over the killings, describing the fallen guards as heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice while defending their community. He commended their bravery, noting that they had resisted the attackers and reportedly neutralised several of them.
The governor said the attack highlights the persistent threat posed by armed groups to rural communities and called on the military to review and strengthen its operational strategies.
In response to the incident, AbdulRazaq announced the constitution of a State Security Strategy Committee comprising retired senior military officers and security experts to bolster security architecture in the state.
The committee includes retired Major General G.A. Wahab (Chairman), Maj. Gen. Yemi Abidoye, Maj. Gen. Abubakar Ndalolo, Rear Admiral Aliyu Lawal, Air Commodore A.S.A. Buhari, AIG Aderemi Opadokun, and Lt. Col. W.A. Lawal, with Permanent Secretary Shuaib Abdulganiyu serving as secretary.
The governor is expected to meet with the committee as part of efforts to address rising insecurity and prevent further attacks in vulnerable communities.
By Hammed Shittu (Ilorin) / Laleye Dipo (Minna)
