Many Feared Killed As Bandits Sack Ondo Communities

In a night of terror, suspected bandits launched a brutal assault on four communities in Ondo State’s Akure North Local Government Area, leaving a trail of devastation and a community in mourning. 

The villages of Aba Alajido, Aba Sunday, Aba Pastor, and Ademekun were overrun in the early hours of Saturday, as heavily armed gunmen opened fire indiscriminately, sparking chaos and mass flight among residents.

Security forces scrambled to respond. A police source confirmed that officers were deployed on Sunday to the scene, and at least 14 bodies have been recovered from the ravaged villages—though a local resident, known only as Sunday, insists that over 40 people lost their lives, with many more bodies still hidden in the surrounding bush.

“This nightmare began last Monday, but it was Friday night that truly sealed our fate,” the resident recalled. “They struck when everyone was asleep—shooting without mercy. Many fled into the bush for safety, and sadly, too many did not make it.”

The attack has deepened fears of escalating insecurity in the region. Mrs. Funmilayo Odunlami, the Police Public Relations Officer for Ondo State, confirmed that investigations are underway. 

“Upon receiving the report of the attack in Aba Pastor, our command acted immediately. We are working to restore normalcy and bring these criminals to justice,” she said.

Adding to the community’s anguish, Princess Adelowo Adekemisola, the regent of Ademekun Community, expressed her sorrow and frustration. 

“Fourteen people were killed in our community by these armed intruders, and we have been fighting this menace for six long years,” she lamented. 

She noted that the attackers crossed the Edo-Ondo border, complicating security efforts, and called on state authorities to urgently step in and protect vulnerable communities.

As search operations continue and investigations deepen, residents remain on high alert, demanding swift action to end the cycle of violence that has left their communities scarred and grieving.