Renewed Attacks Deepen Insecurity in Ndanaku Axis of Patigi LGA.

Renewed Attacks Deepen Insecurity in Ndanaku Axis of Patigi LGA.

Fresh concerns have emerged over worsening insecurity in parts of Patigi Local Government Area following renewed attacks by suspected terrorists in communities around Ndanaku, a border settlement linking Kwara and Kogi states.

A detailed account from community sources describes the situation as dire, warning that residents of Ndanaku and its surrounding villages remain under persistent threat despite earlier security interventions.

Ndanaku, regarded as a strategic agrarian hub near Egbe, has long been known for its fertile land and hospitality. However, the once მშვიდ and thriving community is now said to be grappling with displacement, fear, and repeated attacks attributed to armed groups.

Local reports indicate that the crisis evolved over time, beginning with disputes over farmland involving herders, settlers, and host communities. These tensions reportedly escalated into violent clashes, eventually creating vulnerabilities that allowed armed groups—initially described as bandits but now widely referred to as terrorists—to infiltrate the area.

The situation forced many residents to flee their homes in previous years, effectively becoming internally displaced within their own region. Although a relative sense of calm was restored following increased security presence and government intervention in 2025, many returnees reportedly came back to destroyed homes, looted farms, and disrupted livelihoods.

However, recent developments suggest that the fragile peace may be deteriorating once again.

According to the latest report, communities near Ndanaku, including Dina and Mari villages, were attacked late Thursday night, April 2, into the early hours of Friday, April 3, 2026. The assailants reportedly carried out coordinated assaults, resulting in casualties and abductions.

Sources on the ground disclosed that in Dina village, at least one resident was killed, several others sustained injuries, and one person was kidnapped. A similar attack was reported in Mari, where another abduction occurred.

Security forces stationed in Ndanaku were said to have responded promptly, preventing the attackers from advancing into the main community. However, the operation reportedly came at a cost, with casualties recorded among the responding military personnel and others sustaining injuries.

In a separate incident, a businesswoman returning from a trip and a local resident were reportedly abducted within the Ndanaku area, further heightening fears among inhabitants.

Residents say the renewed wave of violence has left the community traumatized, with many expressing frustration over what they describe as insufficient protection despite earlier assurances. Some locals reportedly feel trapped, lacking the means to relocate from what they now describe as a conflict zone.

Community stakeholders are calling for urgent and decisive action from security agencies and government authorities to address the escalating crisis, restore confidence, and ensure the safety of lives and property.

The situation underscores broader security challenges in parts of Kwara State, particularly in rural and border communities vulnerable to armed incursions.

As of the time of filing this report, there has been no official statement from security agencies regarding the latest incidents. Residents, however, continue to call for immediate intervention, warning that the situation remains volatile and far from resolved.

“This is not yet over,” a community source said, echoing growing concerns that without urgent action, the cycle of violence may persist.