Fresh violence has hit Edu Local Government Area of Kwara State, as armed bandits launched deadly raids that left a newly-married man dead, hundreds of cattle stolen, and a factory owner kidnapped.
The gunmen, who came in large numbers, first stormed Gbugbu community on Thursday afternoon, where they abducted the proprietor of Yashashi Pure Water factory.
Just hours earlier, the same group had attacked a Fulani settlement in Bokungi, Tsaragi area, unleashing gunfire around midnight. The raid targeted the homes of two community leaders — Alhaji Garuba and Alhaji Mumini. In the attack, Mumini’s eldest son, Muhammadu, who had recently married, was shot dead.
When they failed to force their way into Garuba’s house, the bandits turned to his herd and rustled nearly 1,000 cattle. They reportedly moved the livestock through Fengewa, where they clashed briefly with local vigilantes and soldiers. By morning, some scattered cattle were seen in Shegbe, suggesting part of the herd may have been intercepted.
The incident has heightened fear across Edu, with residents accusing security agencies of slow and weak responses. Many said they now depend largely on vigilante groups for safety.
“This happened while our Governor is away on vacation. People are wondering why security agents always come late or fail to act effectively,” a resident lamented.
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