Gunmen have launched a deadly attack on Babanla community in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, killing five people, including a police officer identified as Adejumo Wasiu.
The incident, which occurred on Thursday, August 8, 2025, prompted an immediate response from a combined team of security forces, including operatives of the Nigerian Army, Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services (DSS), and local vigilante groups, who were swiftly mobilised to pursue the attackers.
The assault left residents in shock, forcing many to flee their homes in search of safety in neighbouring communities.
In a statement released on Sunday, spokesperson for the Kwara State Police Command, SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, confirmed the attack and outlined the sequence of events.
“On 8th August 2025, armed criminals numbering in their hundreds and riding motorcycles stormed Babanla community. They attacked the Divisional Police Headquarters, fired sporadically, and raided the local market,” the statement read.
“Five people were killed, including a brave police officer, Inspector Adejumo Wasiu. A swift and coordinated response by police operatives, Nigerian Army personnel, vigilantes, and local hunters repelled the attack, restored order, and initiated a full-scale manhunt for the perpetrators.”
Following the incident, the Kwara State Commissioner of Police, CP Adekimi Ojo, and the State Director of the DSS paid an on-the-spot assessment visit to Babanla. They met with His Royal Highness, Oba Yusuf Aliyu Alabi Arojojoye II, and held high-level discussions on reinforcing peace and strengthening collaboration between security agencies and the local community.
The joint security delegation also toured key locations affected by the attack, including the market and the divisional police station, to evaluate the extent of damage and ensure full restoration of stability.
CP Ojo ordered sustained armed patrols, enhanced intelligence gathering, and the deployment of specialised tracking teams to bring the attackers to justice. The DSS also pledged continued intelligence support to aid the investigation and arrest of all those involved.
The police command reiterated its unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property across Kwara State. Residents have been urged to remain calm, vigilant, and to support security efforts by providing credible information.
