‘We Lost Everything’: Kwara Families Relive Terror of Fresh Bandit Invasion
Residents of Abudu community in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State have recounted the traumatic ordeal they endured after armed bandits invaded their village
The bandits looted homes, abducting residents and forcing many families to flee. Survivors said the attackers stormed the community without warning, leaving behind fear, destruction and uncertainty as several victims remain in captivity.
Families affected by the attack described how the gunmen operated for hours, moving from house to house while stealing valuables and kidnapping residents. Some victims said they escaped into nearby bushes with their children, while others watched helplessly as relatives were taken away. Community members said the incident has left many households displaced and struggling to rebuild their lives.
According to residents, the worsening insecurity has disrupted farming, trading and other economic activities, with many people now too afraid to return to their farms or travel on surrounding roads. They expressed concern that repeated attacks have deepened humanitarian challenges in the area, leaving families without stable sources of income or adequate security.
The affected families appealed to the Federal Government, the Kwara State Government and security agencies to intensify operations against armed groups operating in the area. They called for the safe rescue of those still in captivity, increased deployment of security personnel and stronger measures to prevent further attacks on vulnerable rural communities.
The latest incident has renewed concerns over insecurity in parts of Kwara State, where communities have repeatedly come under attack from armed groups in recent months. Residents insist that sustained security operations and improved protection for remote settlements are necessary to restore confidence and enable displaced families to return to their normal lives.
