They Sent a Letter Asking to Preach, Then They Massacred Us
They Sent a Letter Asking to Preach, Then They Massacred Us
“They Sent a Letter Asking to Preach, Then They Massacred Us” — Kwara Residents Speak on Jihadist Attack
Residents of communities affected by the recent jihadist attack in kwara State have shared harrowing accounts of how the violence unfolded, describing what they say was a calculated deception that led to the deadly assault.
According to locals, the attackers first made contact by sending a letter to community leaders, requesting permission to come and preach. The letter reportedly framed the visit as a peaceful religious engagement, which raised little suspicion among residents who are accustomed to hosting preachers and clerics.
“We received a letter. They said they wanted to preach and spread their message,” a resident recounted. “Nothing in it suggested violence. We believed they were coming in peace.”
Days later, the same group allegedly returned, but instead of preaching, they launched a brutal attack on the community. Residents say the assailants struck suddenly, leaving several people dead, homes destroyed, and families forced to flee for safety.
Another survivor described the moment fear took over the village. “We heard shouting and gunshots. People were running in different directions. That was when we realized we had been deceived,” the resident said.
The attack has left the affected communities in shock and mourning, with many residents now displaced and fearful of returning to their homes. Local leaders say the incident has exposed gaps in security and intelligence, especially in rural areas vulnerable to extremist infiltration.
The Kwara State Government has condemned the attack, describing it as a cowardly act of terror. Authorities have assured residents that security agencies are investigating the incident and intensifying operations to track down those responsible.
Meanwhile, community leaders have urged residents to be vigilant and cautious, even in situations that appear harmless. “We have learned a painful lesson,” one leader said. “Trust was used against us.”
As mourning continues, residents are calling on the government to increase security presence, provide relief for victims, and ensure that justice is served to prevent future attacks.
