There was panic in Ido Ayegunle, a community in Obokun Local Government Area of Osun State, on Thursday, after suspected thugs, allegedly sponsored by a neighboring town, invaded the community, burning down houses and reportedly holding some residents hostage.
hostage.
The attackers, who reportedly stormed the community in the early hours of the morning, were said to have been armed with cutlasses and other dangerous weapons. Witnesses said the invaders set fire to several homes and terrorised residents, many of whom fled into nearby bushes for safety.
A resident, who identified himself simply as Femi Agboola, said the incident left the community in shock.
“They came armed and dangerous. Before we knew it, houses were on fire. They dragged some of our people away. Everyone ran into the bush. We’ve never seen anything like this,” he said.
It was learnt that the invasion may be linked to a lingering boundary dispute between Ido Ayegunle and a neighbouring town, although this could not be independently confirmed as of press time.
Speaking with journalist via phone conversation, a traditional ruler, Oba Oluwatimileyin Oluyemi Ajayi, called on the state government and security agencies to act swiftly to prevent a repeat of the violence.
“This is a serious threat to our peace and safety. We are peaceful people and cannot defend ourselves against this level of violence. The government must intervene now,” he said.
The number of those injured or abducted remains unclear, but residents say many families have been displaced, with women and children seeking refuge in neighbouring communities.
As of press time, normalcy had yet to return to Ido Ayegunle, with tension still high and a security presence reportedly minimal.
