Members of a newly identified terrorist group known as Mahmuda are reportedly planning a secret escape from Nigeria into the Benin Republic through border communities in Kwara State, according to a security source familiar with the situation.
The development follows intensified military operations in the country’s northwest aimed at flushing out armed groups. An audio recording circulating online reveals that the group is targeting Baruteen Local Government Area for their escape. The source warned of an imminent security breach and urged urgent intervention by state and federal authorities.
The Mahmuda terrorist group, fearing an impending crackdown, is planning to flee into the Benin Republic,” the source revealed. “Their previous access routes through Kosubosu, Kaiama, Wawa, Gwarapa, and others towards Yauri have been effectively blocked. Those areas are now under heavy security watch.”
The source issued a call to action for traditional rulers and local security teams. “All district heads in border communities should place local vigilantes on red alert. Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq must coordinate with all security agencies in the state immediately,” he said.
He further urged the Chief of Army Staff, the Commander of Sobi Barracks in Ilorin, and other relevant forces to act swiftly. “If strategic locations like Gwanara and Tabira are sealed off, the terrorists will have no way out,” he added.
Community-based forest patrols were also highlighted as a key part of the strategy. “Forest guards should play a crucial role here. The intelligence we have points to a planned escape via Tabira and Gwanara into Benin,” the source stressed. “Once they cross over, tracking them will become extremely difficult.”
The warning comes just days after Mahmuda group militants carried out a brutal attack in Ilesha Baruba, within the same Baruten Local Government Area. The assault, which occurred after the Isha prayer on Monday, left several people dead and many others injured. Eyewitnesses said the attackers arrived on motorcycles, wearing military camouflage and carrying sophisticated weapons.
The sight of the uniforms caused initial confusion among residents, who believed the gunmen were Nigerian soldiers. However, moments later, chaos erupted as they began shooting indiscriminately.
A video published by Sahara Reporters showed the bodies of victims lying in pools of blood as panicked residents wailed in the background. One survivor, Umar Faruq, recounted the terrifying moments. “They looked like soldiers. We didn’t realise what was happening until they opened fire. It was terrifying,” he said.
The traditional leader of the area, the Turaki of Ilesha Baruba, also confirmed the attack and condemned it as a direct challenge to the peace and security of the community. “This is more than an attack; it’s a message that we are not safe. Our people are in fear. The government must respond without delay,” he said.
