A wave of fear and killings have been thrown around communities in Oro Ago Kingdom, Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State as troops of Operation SAVANNAH SHIELD repelled the terrorist attacks.
Security sources said the incident occurred at about 6:55 p.m. on March 25 when troops deployed at the Oro-Ago patrol base, in collaboration with local vigilantes, responded to credible intelligence on the attack.
According to the sources, the combined team engaged the assailants and successfully forced them to withdraw, preventing further destruction in the community.
During the encounter, one vigilante and one civilian sustained gunshot injuries.
The sources said the injured victims were immediately evacuated by troops to the General Hospital, Omu-Aran, for medical attention.
They added that troops have since maintained a strong presence in the area, conducting sustained patrols to prevent any possible regrouping of the attackers and to reassure residents of their safety.
Community sources noted that the terrorists invaded Oke Oyan community in broad daylight, killing at least four persons.
Witnesses described a chaotic scene as residents ran for safety, abandoning homes and property.
A resident noted that the attack is part of a growing pattern of violence in the area, with repeated cases of killings, abductions, and rising ransom demands recorded in recent months.
“They come without warning. People are no longer safe, even in their own homes,” a resident said.
Of particular concern is the reported abduction of members of the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) in Omugo community during an earlier attack.
Sources within the community hinted that the kidnappers are demanding a ransom of ₦1 billion for their release, including the wife of the church’s resident pastor.
Families of the victims are said to be in distress as negotiations continue, with uncertainty surrounding the condition of those in captivity.
Residents also reported that fear remains widespread across Oro Ago, with indications that fresh attacks may still be occurring in parts of the kingdom. However, the full extent of casualties has yet to be confirmed.
Despite the escalating situation, locals say security response has been slow, leaving communities vulnerable.
As of the time of filing this report, there has been no official statement from security agencies or the Kwara State Government regarding the incidents.
Residents are calling for urgent intervention to prevent further loss of lives and restore calm to the affected communities.
Written with additional report from Zagazola Makama
