Bandit Attacks Trigger Mass Exodus In Kwara Community As Residents Flee Over Rising Insecurity

Ilorin,  Kwara State- Residents of Oke Oyan in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State have begun fleeing their homes en masse following repeated attacks by suspected bandits, forcing many families to abandon their community in search of safety.

In a video obtained by Afrika Eyes, several residents were seen hurriedly packing their belongings into vehicles, motorcycles, and tricycles as they prepared to leave the troubled community.

The footage showed men, women and children moving household items, bags and other valuables while expressing fear over the worsening security situation.

Sources within the community told Afrika Eyes that the attacks have become frequent in recent weeks, leaving villagers with no option but to relocate to safer areas.

According to one resident, the situation has become unbearable as armed attackers reportedly invade the area repeatedly, creating panic among villagers.

“We cannot continue living like this. Every time we hear that bandits are coming. People are afraid to sleep in their houses. That is why many families have decided to leave,” the resident said.

Another villager explained that the movement out of the community was not planned but was triggered by fear following repeated threats and attacks by armed men suspected to be bandits.

“You can see people packing their things. Many families are moving away because they are afraid for their lives. Nobody feels safe again,” the villager added.

The video captured several vehicles filled with household items including mattresses, bags of clothes and food items as families prepared to leave the village.

Some residents were also seen loading motorcycles with their belongings while others stood around discussing their next destination.

Residents told Afrika Eyes that the attacks have disrupted daily activities in the area, forcing farmers and traders to abandon their work.

“Our farms are no longer safe. People cannot go to the farm again because they fear they may be attacked or kidnapped,” another resident said.

Community members also lamented the absence of adequate security presence in the area, saying villagers have been left to fend for themselves despite repeated attacks.

They appealed to the Kwara State Government and security agencies to urgently intervene and restore security in the community before the situation worsens.

“We are begging the government to come and help us. If nothing is done, this community may become completely empty because people are already leaving,” a resident said.

Oke Oyan and several rural communities across parts of Kwara South have in recent years witnessed increasing security challenges, including banditry and kidnappings.

As of the time of filing this report, authorities Kwara State had yet to issue an official statement regarding the reported attacks and the ongoing mass movement of residents out of Kwara South.