Security tensions in Kwara State reached a new peak as armed kidnappers seized four farmers in separate operations during harvest season in Bokungi village, Edu Local Government Area.
Coordinated Farm Attacks
Between 6:30 PM and 7:00 PM last Wednesday, the peaceful farming community of Bokungi became the latest target of worsening insecurity in Kwara State. According to multiple sources within the community, the kidnappers carried out two distinct operations against farmers who were busy harvesting their produce.
Local media monitoring from NupekoTv-Lafiagi provided detailed accounts of the terrifying incidents. "In the first assault, two farmers were abducted while they were packaging their harvested rice," the station reported. "Moments later, another two individuals were kidnapped from a neighbouring farm, bringing the total number of victims to four."
Government Takes Emergency Measures
The coordinated nature of the attacks has sparked widespread fear among residents, prompting immediate government action. The Kwara State government has ordered the indefinite closure of schools across four local governments affected by rising security threats.
A circular obtained by journalists and communicated through the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Kwara State wing, directed schools in Isin, Irepodun, Ifelodun, and Ekiti LGAs to shut down immediately. The directive was signed by NUT Chairman Yusuf Agboola, who explained the union acted on instructions from the Ministry of Education and Human Capital Development.
Security Crisis Escalates
The school closures come as part of broader government efforts to address escalating security challenges in Kwara South. "This decision was occasioned by the security challenges ravaging the area and the efforts of the government to control the situation," the circular stated, assuring teachers that further updates would follow.
The emergency measures follow another violent incident barely a day earlier, where suspected bandits attacked a church in Eruku, Ekiti Local Government Area. That attack resulted in three worshippers killed and over 35 others abducted during a night service, highlighting the rapidly deteriorating security situation across the state.
Local communities now live in heightened fear as farming activities, essential for livelihoods, become increasingly dangerous. The pattern of attacks during harvest season raises concerns about food security and economic stability in the affected regions.
