Hundreds of residents in several communities in southern Kwara State have begun fleeing their homes after the circulation of an alarming letter warning of imminent armed attacks.
The letter, attributed to a group calling itself the Nigeria Terrorist Association (NTA), was found at a busy market in Ira in Oyun Local Government Area on Thursday, triggering widespread fear and uncertainty.
Though its authenticity has not been verified, the document reportedly threatened assaults on Ira, Inaja, Aho and neighbouring towns, prompting many families to relocate to safer areas.
“People are afraid. Some have left for nearby towns because we don’t know what is coming,” a local chief in Ira told reporters on condition of anonymity.
Following the discovery of the warning, security agencies including the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigerian Army and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) have stepped up patrols in the threatened areas.
The Kwara State Police Command confirmed receipt of the letter and said its intelligence unit is working to determine its source and credibility.
Additional personnel have been deployed alongside community vigilantes to protect residents.
A military source also noted increased patrols from the Nigerian Army’s Forward Operating Base in Ilemona to deter any potential violence.
The letter was reportedly discovered in a motorcycle park near the central mosque in Ira in the afternoon, prompting quick hand-over to local leaders and a coordinated push by security agents.
Traditional rulers from Oyun Local Government convened an emergency meeting to discuss protective measures after the letter heightened tensions.
Schools were closed, businesses shut, and many residents postponed farming activities, according to community union leaders.
“There is panic everywhere, security agencies have started patrolling, but fear remains,” said a representative of the Ira Descendants Union.
Local government authorities have urged calm and vigilance, asking citizens to report unusual movements and support community policing efforts while agencies investigate the threat.
