Kwara Community Alleges Police Fired Teargas At Vigilantes During Terrorist Attack In Eruku

Ilorin, Kwara State – Residents of Eruku in Ekiti Local Government Area have accused the Nigerian Police of complicating a terrorist attack by firing teargas at local vigilantes who had run out of ammunition, instead of pursuing the assailants.

The allegation emerged during the visit of the Kwara State Commissioner of Police to the community following the abduction and killing of three church members.

One community representative, speaking on behalf of residents, described the police response as deeply frustrating and counterproductive.

“We really appreciate your visit, sir, but we have serious concerns about the conduct of the police during the attack,” the representative said.

According to the eyewitness, the attack unfolded over a period of more than 30 minutes.

“The terrorists were shooting sporadically, and we were completely unprepared for such an onslaught. Our vigilantes, alongside some brave residents, did everything they could to defend the community. We advanced towards where the attackers were, but quickly realized we had run out of ammunition. In that critical moment, instead of receiving assistance from the police, they fired teargas at us. That disrupted all our efforts to protect ourselves and the town.”

The resident alleged that while community members risked their lives to confront the terrorists, the police kept their distance, watching as the attackers continued their assault.

However,  some victims who were killed were inside the local church, highlighting the devastating human cost of the attack.

Beyond the immediate security concern, residents also expressed frustration over what they perceive as neglect from local government authorities.

“We cannot remain silent while our pleas go unheard. Our local government chairman has failed us. They may ignore us now, but come election time, they seek our votes. Even our king, a highly respected figure in the community, struggles to have his calls returned. Disrespecting our monarch is a disrespect to the entire community,” the representative stated.

Residents called on the state and federal authorities to provide more robust security measures.

“We are not asking for much, only the tools to defend ourselves. If the government can supply sophisticated weapons to our vigilantes, we can secure our community from these terrorists. We are ready to stand and fight, but we need the support to do so safely and effectively.”

Residents of Eruku are calling for immediate action to prevent further loss of life and to restore public confidence in law enforcement agencies.