Local vigilantes have taken over security duties as troops fail to respond to threats.
The Emir of Yashikira, Alhaji Umar Sariki Usman, Sabikpassi II, has publicly criticized Nigerian soldiers deployed to his community in Baruten Local Government Area of Kwara State for fleeing when faced with terrorist attacks. He lamented that the soldiers “usually drop their motorcycles and run away whenever the terrorists launch an attack.” According to the Emir, the troops are inexperienced and poorly equipped, describing them as “young boys… just from the training.”
He expressed frustration that despite repeated assurances from the government, no reinforcements have arrived. “We are now relying on our local vigilante,” he said, highlighting the vulnerability of the community.
Local vigilante groups have been forced to take on the responsibility of protection but remain ill-prepared for the increasing threats posed by the insurgent Mahmuda terror group. This group has been linked to a series of violent attacks across Kwara and Niger states, including the killing of over 15 vigilantes in Kemanji. The Emir warned that his community remains at risk without adequate military support.