Terrorists' Attacks in Kwara State: Death Toll and Security Response

Strategic Insights -

Residents of Babanla and neighboring communities in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State have fled after a recent attack by terrorists left five persons, including a police officer, dead. The attackers, part of the Mahmuda terrorist group, stormed the Divisional Police Headquarters and raided the market, carting away weapons and abducting an unspecified number of people.

Key Takeaways:

  • Five persons, including a police officer, were killed in the attack.
  • Over 3,000 residents have fled the community due to the attack.
  • The Mahmuda terrorist group, a faction of Boko Haram, has been operating in the forested areas of Kwara State.
  • The attackers, numbering over 200, stormed the community on bikes from two different routes, engaging in a two-hour shooting.
  • Eyewitnesses reported that some officers at the Divisional Police Headquarters escaped through the fence.
  • Residents have called on the authorities to come to their aid, with some stating that the attack was "coordinated" and had forced residents of 15 neighboring communities to flee.
  • The security situation has been described as "terrible" by the traditional ruler of Babanla town, and several communities have been deserted.
  • The federal government has deployed four war fighter jets in the area to combat the terrorists.
  • The Commissioner of Police in the state has confirmed that the assailants attacked the Divisional Police Headquarters and raided the market.
  • The police have launched a manhunt for the perpetrators, and residents have been urged to remain calm but vigilant.

Statistics:

  • 5 persons, including a police officer, were killed in the attack.
  • Over 3,000 residents have fled the community.
  • The Mahmuda terrorist group has been operating in the forested areas of Kwara State for several months.
  • The attackers numbered over 200 and stormed the community on bikes from two different routes.
  • Residents have reported that several shops were looted, and foodstuffs and other items were stolen.

Sources:

  • Daily Trust, 2025
  • AllAfrica Global Media, 2025