Agency report
Lata Nna, a farming community in Patigi Local Government Area of Kwara State, has become a shadow of its former self as persistent bandit attacks force residents to abandon their homes. Community leaders say about 95 per cent of the population has fled, leaving behind deserted houses, empty farms and a growing sense of despair.
In an open letter to President Bola Tinubu, the community described living under constant threat from kidnappings, armed robberies, extortion and deadly raids that have continued for more than two years. Residents said the worsening violence has crippled farming, blocked access to markets and hospitals, and turned the community’s only road into what they called a “death trap.”
The letter recalled several deadly incidents, including the killing of farmer Allassan Ndaba on April 15 and the fatal shooting of two residents after bandits reportedly blocked the community’s access road on June 26. Residents also alleged that armed men looted homes, shops and motorcycles during a daylight raid on July 10, while a Point-of-Sale operator was robbed at gunpoint days later.
Community leaders also referenced a deadly clash in August 2025 between local hunters and suspected bandits, claiming that 65 hunters lost their lives, with only 40 bodies recovered.
Speaking in a viral video, the Village Head of Lata Nna, Alhaji Mohammed Lata, said fear has emptied the once-thriving settlement, with many residents now sleeping in neighbouring communities or in the bush for safety. He also lamented poor mobile network coverage, the absence of a permanent security presence and the lack of a functional healthcare facility.
Women in the community tearfully recounted how insecurity had destroyed family life and livelihoods, while the Chief Imam warned that continued inaction could expose the remaining residents to greater danger.
The community appealed to the Federal Government, Kwara State Government and Patigi Local Government Council to deploy security personnel, secure the only access road, establish a permanent security post, improve telecommunications, provide healthcare services and support displaced families.
As of the time of the appeal, the Kwara State Government had not publicly responded to the community’s allegations.
