Bandits kill community leader after evening prayers in Kwara

Gunmen suspected to be bandits have shot dead a prominent resident, identified as Alhaji Gomina, in Lade community, Patigi Local Government Area of Kwara State.

The tragic incident occurred on Sunday night shortly after the victim had performed the Isha’i (evening) prayers at a local mosque.

Witnesses said he was on his way home when the assailants ambushed him and opened fire, killing him instantly before fleeing the scene.

The killing has plunged Lade and adjoining communities into grief. Residents described the deceased as a respected figure deeply committed to religious and community service.

Fear of further attacks has already forced many villagers across Patigi, Edu, and parts of Ifelodun and Ekiti Local Government Areas to abandon their homes, worsening the region’s security challenges.

Community members have appealed to the Kwara State Government and security agencies to intensify efforts against bandit activities, warning that the prevailing insecurity could lead to more displacement if urgent measures are not taken.

As of the time of filing this report, neither the police command nor the state government had released an official statement on the incident.