The Oke-Ode Community Development Association (OOCDA) has expressed deep concern after suspected bandits killed no fewer than 15 vigilantes and a village head, while about five others were kidnapped during an attack on Sunday, September 28, in Kwara State.

The National President of the Community Association, Alhaji AbdulGaniyu Ajala-Bello, described the incident as “dastardly” in a statement made available to journalists in Ilorin, urging government to intensify security efforts and the need for residents to remain more vigilant.

In the statement issued on his behalf by the Association’s National Publicity Secretary, Mr. Kunle Akogun, Alhaji Ajala-Bello commiserated with the families of the vigilantes and the Bale of Ogba-Ayo who lost their lives, as well as with the wounded and those abducted in the attack.

He also prayed for the peaceful repose of the dead, speedy recovery for the injured, and the early rescue of those kidnapped.

The community leader stressed that the tragic incident had sparked fear, panic, and unease among residents.

He, however, appealed for calm, assuring that necessary steps were being taken to end banditry and kidnapping in the Oke-Ode axis.

Ajala-Bello urged residents to remain vigilant, especially regarding the movement of strangers, and to promptly report any suspicious activities to security agents.

He also called on both the Kwara State and Federal Governments to adopt more proactive measures to curb the activities of bandits in the area and prevent a recurrence.

He further appealed to security agencies to collaborate and work together towards bringing banditry in the community to an end.