Fresh Terror Attack in Kwara: Traveller Killed, Two Abducted on Busy Highway
Residents of Kwara state are gripped by renewed fear following a deadly attack by suspected terrorists along a major highway that connects communities across the Kwara-Kogi border. The incident, which occurred on Sunday evening, April 12, 2026, resulted in the tragic death of one traveller and the abduction of two others, heightening concerns over escalating violence in the region.
Details of the Attack on Egbe-Koro Highway
According to community sources, the armed assailants intercepted vehicles on the Egbe-Koro road, a critical route linking the two states. The attackers, believed to be bandits operating from forest corridors, opened fire on commuters, causing widespread panic. The victim, identified as Eri Okan, an indigene of the Koro community in Ekiti Local Government Area, was travelling from Egbe in Yagba West Local Government Area of Kogi state to his hometown when he encountered the gunmen.
In addition to the killing, the terrorists abducted two other travellers during the operation. The abducted individuals are Alaba, popularly known as 'Jogojogo,' and another person called 'Man Pass Man,' both indigenes of Koro. The abduction occurred around 6:00 p.m., further illustrating the brazen nature of the attack and the vulnerability of travellers on this route.
Residents Raise Alarm Over Insecurity
Local residents have expressed deep anxiety, noting that the Egbe-Koro highway has become increasingly dangerous due to repeated attacks by suspected terrorists and kidnappers. Many now fear travelling between communities, especially during evening hours when such incidents are more frequent. The poor security presence in the area has allowed criminal elements to exploit the situation, leading to a surge in violent activities.
Efforts to obtain an official response from security authorities have been unsuccessful. The Kwara state Police Command Spokesperson, DSP Ejire Toun, did not respond to text messages or repeated calls seeking comment. However, community members are urgently calling on both state governments and security agencies to intensify patrols and dismantle criminal hideouts in the surrounding forests to prevent further attacks.
Related Violence and Broader Security Concerns
This attack adds to a growing list of violent incidents in Kwara North and border communities, where residents have repeatedly raised alarms over the increasing activities of armed groups. In a related development, suspected terrorists attacked the Nuku community in Kaiama Local Government Area on Friday, April 10, 2026, killing five forest guards in a coordinated overnight raid. That assault targeted newly recruited operatives, with attackers burning motorcycles and security vehicles, and the unit commander among those killed.
As of press time, the whereabouts of the abducted victims from the Egbe-Koro highway attack remain unknown. Families are in distress, fearing possible ransom demands by the terrorists. The ongoing insecurity underscores the urgent need for enhanced security measures to protect citizens and restore safety in these vulnerable regions.
