Nigerian Police Issue Terrorist Attack Alert in Kwara-Kogi Border Areas

The Nigeria Police Force has issued a high alert to all security formations in Kwara and Kogi States following intelligence reports indicating an imminent terrorist attack targeting the Omu-Aran area of Kwara State and the Yagba West axis of Kogi State.

In response to this threat, law enforcement agencies in both states, particularly those in boundary regions, have been directed to heighten their vigilance and strengthen patrol operations. Officers have been specifically instructed to take preventive measures against potential kidnappings within their areas of responsibility.

A police wireless message, signed by the Directorate of Operations of the Osun State Police Command, was obtained by SaharaReporters on Monday, putting commands on high alert for the next 72 hours.

The message stated: “Intelligence reports indicate that terrorists are assembling to launch an attack within 72 hours targeting the Omu-Aran, Kwara State, and Yagba West, Kogi State axis. All area commanders and Deputy Police Officers (DPOs) in Osun State are to be on red alert, especially those sharing boundaries with Kwara and Kogi States. Patrol teams must be vigilant to prevent any kidnapping activities.”

This alert follows a recent wave of kidnappings in Kwara South, which has become a hotspot for criminal activities. Last week, gunmen invaded Oreke-Okegbo, a community in Ifelodun Local Government Area, leaving one person dead and another injured during a foiled kidnapping attempt. Earlier in October, a vigilante commander, Chief Lukman Balogun, was killed while attempting to rescue abductees in Igbaja, Kwara State.

Authorities have urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies to mitigate any potential threats.