Five forest guards, including a commander, were on Friday killed by armed bandits in Nuku community in Kaiama Local Government Area, Kwara State.
It was gathered that the suspected attackers, who invaded the Nuku community, also destroyed the guards’ motorcycles and set several buildings ablaze.
Police patrol vehicles in the area were likewise torched during the assault.
Residents said the attack caused widespread panic, forcing villagers to flee in search of safety.
The Kwara State Police Command, in a statement signed by its Public Relations Officer, Adetoun Ejire, confirmed the incident, adding that a tactical, intelligence-driven operation has commenced to apprehend those responsible.
Meanwhile, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq said he received news of the deaths “with a heavy heart”, noting that the guards were killed while repelling a midnight attack on their position.
The governor praised their courage and patriotism, stating that they succeeded in neutralising dozens of the attackers during the encounter.
He said the incident highlights the ongoing threat posed by armed groups to local communities and urged the military high command to review and strengthen its strategies.
“I commend the efforts of the security agencies in this theatre and urge them to do more.
”Nothing can truly compensate for the ultimate sacrifice that the fallen guards have made on our behalf. Our sincere condolences go to the families and communities of the forest guards. They will forever remain our heroes.
”We are, nevertheless, committed to supporting their families. I pray that Almighty God repose their beautiful souls and give us victory over these terrorists,” he said in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media, Bashir Adigun.
The governor has also constituted the Kwara State Security Strategy Committee, comprising retired military generals and senior security officials.
The committee is chaired by retired Maj. Gen. G. A. Wahab, with other members including Maj. Gen. Yemi Abidoye, Maj. Gen. Abubakar Ndalolo, Rear Admiral Aliyu Lawal, Air Commodore A. S. A. Buhari, AIG Aderemi Opadokun, and Lt. Col. W. A. Lawal.
Permanent Secretary (General Services), Shuaib Abdulganiyu, will serve as secretary of the committee.
The governor is expected to meet with the committee on 10 April for its inaugural session.