Society Editor
By Tolu Adesuwa Igiehon
Tension has gripped several communities in southern Kwara State as residents abandon their homes following the discovery of a threatening letter warning of possible bandit attacks.
The letter, reportedly signed by a group identifying itself as the “Nigeria Terrorist Association (NTA),” surfaced on Thursday at Ira Market in Oyun Local Government Area. Though authorities have yet to confirm its authenticity, the message allegedly threatened coordinated raids on Ira, Inaja, Aho, and neighbouring settlements.
Fear Forces Residents to Flee
The development has triggered widespread anxiety across affected towns. Many families have reportedly relocated to safer areas, including Offa and other nearby communities.
A traditional leader in Ira, who requested anonymity, said fear has overtaken daily life.
“People are relocating because no one knows whether the threat is real. The uncertainty is what makes it worse,” he said.
Normal activities have been disrupted. Schools reportedly remained closed, businesses shut down, and farmers avoided their fields amid concerns over safety.
Security Agencies Mobilise
Security operatives moved swiftly after the letter was handed over to the palace. The Kwara State Police Command confirmed receipt of the document.
The command’s spokesperson, Ejire Adetoun-Adeyemi, stated that intelligence officers are investigating the source and credibility of the threat. She added that additional personnel have been deployed in collaboration with local vigilantes to reassure residents.
Meanwhile, military sources revealed that troops from the Forward Operating Base in Ilemona have intensified patrol operations across vulnerable routes and settlements.
Other agencies, including the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), are also involved in coordinated surveillance efforts.
Traditional Rulers Convene Emergency Meeting
Oba Wahab Oyetoro, the Oninaja of Inaja, confirmed that the alarming message heightened tension across the district. He disclosed that the Oyun Local Government immediately convened a security meeting involving traditional rulers to evaluate the situation and strategize protective measures.
According to him, joint patrols by security agencies and community vigilantes have commenced to forestall any potential attack.
Yekini Olarewaju, National Secretary of the Ira Descendants Union, described the current atmosphere as one of deep apprehension.
“There is panic everywhere. Even with patrols ongoing, people are still afraid,” he noted.
Government Calls for Calm
The Chairman of Oyun Local Government, Akanbi Olarewaju, held an emergency session with security chiefs and community leaders to coordinate a response.
Authorities have urged residents to remain calm but vigilant, emphasizing the importance of reporting suspicious activities promptly.
While no attack has occurred, the psychological impact of the letter has already disrupted social and economic life in parts of southern Kwara.
As investigations continue, communities remain on edge — hoping the threat proves to be a hoax rather than a prelude to violence.
