Gunmen suspected to be members of the ‘Mahmuda’ group launched a deadly attack on Karongi, a town in Baruten Local Government Area of Kwara State, early Sunday morning, killing a vigilante and setting several houses ablaze.
The assailants met little resistance as most local security personnel, including vigilantes, had traveled for Eid-el-Kabir celebrations. The attack began shortly after 6:00 a.m. and lasted until around 11:00 a.m., when reinforcements—comprising soldiers and vigilantes from a nearby community—arrived and repelled the attackers.
The Emir of Yashikira Emirate, Umoru Sariki, confirmed the assault, reporting one fatality and widespread property destruction. He urged the Federal Government and military to establish a permanent security outpost in Karongi or a nearby town to safeguard residents against future attacks.
While Kwara State Police spokesperson Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi said the command was unaware of the incident, Lt. Stephen Nwankwo, spokesperson for the 22 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, confirmed the attack. He identified the deceased as a vigilante who had joined the soldiers in responding to the crisis.
The incident highlights the persistent security challenges facing rural communities and the urgent need for a sustained military presence in high-risk areas.
