Kwara Communities Abandon Homes as Terrorists Circulate Threat Letters

DSS Operatives

Kwara Communities Abandon Homes as Terrorists Circulate Threat Letters

Residents of Ira, Inaja, and Aho communities in Oyun Local Government Area, Kwara State, have fled their homes following threats from suspected terrorist groups, raising alarm over security in northern Nigeria. The threats come in the form of letters warning of imminent attacks, fueling fear and prompting mass displacement.

Over the past week, hoodlums linked to extremist elements reportedly delivered threat letters to four communities. One of the letters, left near the central mosque in Ira, was signed by the “Nigeria Terrorist Association (NTA)”. The message warned villagers to “be ready for us at any time, any date,” claiming the group had moved from Kaiama LGA and intended to target surrounding towns.

The warnings follow a deadly attack on Woro town in Kaiama LGA, where over 176 residents were killed and 38 others abducted earlier this month. Residents fear a repeat of the massacre, causing widespread panic and displacement.

Community Reactions

Traditional leaders reported that the letter was delivered by two men on a motorcycle at a busy Okada riders’ park. Once discovered, the letter was immediately taken to local chiefs and security agencies. Despite the presence of DSS, police, NSCDC, and military personnel, many families chose to leave, while others remained indoors, closing shops and suspending farming and school activities.

Oba Wahab Oyetoro, the Oninaja of Inaja, confirmed that the threat heightened tensions, forcing some residents to seek refuge in neighboring towns such as Offa. Community members described nights of fear and warned children to avoid moving outside after dark.

Yekini Olarewaju, National Secretary of the Ira Descendants Union, emphasized the disruption to daily life, noting that people could not tend to farms, operate businesses, or attend schools. He added that locals have sought urgent government and security intervention.

Security Response

The Kwara State Police Command confirmed receiving the threat letters, stating that investigations are ongoing to verify the source. Police have intensified patrols in collaboration with local vigilantes and urged residents to report suspicious activity.

A senior officer from the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigerian Army’s Forward Operating Base in Ilemona confirmed increased security measures and operational alertness. Oyun LGA Chairman Akanbi Olarewaju convened an emergency meeting with traditional rulers and security agencies to map out preventive strategies and reinforce community policing efforts.

Authorities stressed the importance of timely information-sharing to avert potential attacks and reassure residents. Despite these measures, fear continues to grip communities, leaving many families displaced and anxious about the coming days.

The incident underscores ongoing challenges in combating terrorism and insecurity in Kwara State and northern Nigeria, particularly in vulnerable rural corridors near forest belts.