Panic gripped a community in south-west Nigeria on Wednesday evening after suspected bandits attacked and set fire to a local police station as residents prepared for New Year’s Eve church services.
The attack took place in the Ipele-Owo area of Ondo State at approximately 22:00 local time (21:00 GMT). Eyewitnesses described a “commando-style” raid, with about 20 gunmen storming the community and shooting sporadically.
Police officers and local residents were forced to flee into nearby bushes for safety as the attackers razed the divisional headquarters to the ground.
‘Terrorised’ during crossover services
The timing of the raid coincided with “crossover” services—a popular tradition in Nigeria where Christians gather in churches to see in the New Year. Instead of celebrations, the community was plunged into pandemonium.
“It was a serious incident because many of us had to flee,” one witness, who asked not to be named, told reporters. “The sounds from the attack were terrifying, and none of us could withstand it.”
Sketchy details
The Ondo State Police Public Relations Officer, Jimoh Abayomi, confirmed the incident but stated that the full extent of the damage and potential casualties remained “sketchy.”
“Yes, it happened, but we will get the details out tomorrow,” Mr Abayomi said.
State security operatives have since been deployed to Ipele-Owo to restore order and begin a manhunt for the perpetrators.
Security challenges
The attack highlights the persistent security challenges facing parts of Nigeria, where banditry and attacks on security infrastructure remain a concern.
While Ondo State has traditionally been more stable than the country’s north-west, recent years have seen a rise in sporadic violent incidents, leading to calls for increased vigilance and the strengthening of local security outfits.
Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, who recently granted amnesty to 77 prisoners as a New Year gesture, is expected to receive a full briefing on the attack as the investigation continues.
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