Kogi Communities Slide into Silence
Hundreds of residents of Okunran community in Yagba West Local Government Area, Kogi state, have fled their homes after persistent attacks by armed terrorists. The once-bustling community was abandoned due to kidnappings, killings, and repeated ransom demands. Residents have warned that neighboring communities of Okoloke and Egbe are under similar pressure, with fears that more communities will be deserted if the attacks continue.
Kwara Terrorist Attacks Leave Communities Overcrowded
Terrorist attacks in Kwara state are prevalent in the northern and southern parts of the state. The central part of the state is overcrowded by residents who fled their communities, which were under constant attacks by terrorists. Residents, including monarchs, were being constantly kidnapped in their homes, places of worship, and on their farms. Those who were abducted are still in captivity of the terrorists, with their inability to meet up with the millions of naira being demanded as ransom.
Residents Flee Homes as Terrorists Collect Levies
In some of the deserted communities in Kwara south, thieves have taken advantage of the situation to steal goats, hens, and other domestic animals. Four thieves who came to steal goats were arrested by residents who remained in the community. The affected communities are Woro and Nuku in Kaiama Local Government, where over 160 residents were killed by the terrorists.
Displaced Families Seek Refuge in Safer Towns
The effect of the terrorist attacks is visible across affected areas, with abandoned homes, empty farmlands, declining trade, and a growing number of displaced families seeking refuge in safer towns. Residents have been forced to choose between staying at home and risking attack or fleeing and losing their livelihoods. Community leaders and residents have repeatedly called for stronger security deployment and government intervention to prevent more communities from sliding into silence.
Goverment Urged to Intervene
Residents have been urging the government to send security forces to their communities to prevent further attacks. They have also called for sustained surveillance of flashpoints and urgent intervention to prevent more communities from being deserted. The government has been urged to take immediate action to restore peace and stability in the affected areas.
Thieves Loot Deserted Communities
In some of the deserted communities, thieves have been taking advantage of the situation to steal animals and other valuables. Residents who remain in the community have been forced to take turns to guard their homes and animals. The situation has been described as chaotic, with many residents feeling helpless and vulnerable.
Residents Lament Their Plight
Residents who have fled their homes are lamenting their plight, with many feeling that they have lost everything. They are now forced to live in overcrowded towns, struggling to make ends meet. The situation has been described as dire, with many residents feeling that they are at the mercy of the terrorists.
Government Under Pressure to Act
The government is under pressure to act to prevent further attacks and to protect the lives and properties of residents in the affected areas. The situation has been described as a major security challenge, and the government is facing criticism for its handling of the situation.
Nigerian Security Forces Deployed
Nigerian security forces have been deployed to the affected areas to provide support and protection to residents. The security forces have been conducting patrols and surveillance in the affected areas to prevent further attacks. The situation is still tense, with many residents feeling that they are not safe.
Residents Demand Justice
Residents who have lost their homes and livelihoods are demanding justice and compensation from the government. They feel that the government has failed to protect them, and they are now seeking justice and reparation. The situation has been described as tragic, with many residents feeling that they have lost everything.
Key Facts
- Over 160 residents were killed in attacks on Woro and Nuku communities.
- Four thieves were arrested for stealing goats from a deserted community.
- Residents have been forced to choose between staying at home and risking attack or fleeing and losing their livelihoods.
- Displaced families are seeking refuge in safer towns.
- Thieves are taking advantage of the situation to steal animals and other valuables.
Residents Forced to Flee Homes
Residents have been forced to flee their homes due to persistent attacks by armed terrorists. The situation has been described as dire, with many residents feeling that they are at the mercy of the terrorists. Residents have been urged to remain vigilant and to take turns to guard their homes and animals.