By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Residents of Lata Nna community in Patigi Local Government Area of Kwara State have appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to urgently intervene in the worsening insecurity ravaging their community. In a Save Our Soul (SOS) letter signed by Tauheed Desco, Secretary of the Lata Nna Youth Association, the residents said persistent bandit attacks, kidnappings, killings and robberies over the past two years have crippled daily life and threatened their survival.
Community Raises Alarm Over Persistent Banditry
The community said it has endured repeated kidnappings, extortion, farm invasions and armed robberies in silence. However, residents explained that recent attacks have become more brutal and frequent.
According to the letter, the worsening security situation has prevented people from farming, trading and accessing essential services.
The residents urged President Tinubu to act before the crisis escalates further.
“We have endured kidnappings, extortion, farm invasions and armed robberies in silence. But the incidents listed below have brought our plight to the limelight because of their scale, boldness and brutality,” the letter stated.
Community Recalls Mass Killing of Hunters
The residents recalled that in August 2025, at least 65 hunters died during a fierce clash with bandits in the forests surrounding Lata Nna.
They said only 40 bodies were recovered and buried.
According to the community, the hunters fought with inferior weapons, while the bandits carried sophisticated rifles, including AK-47s.
Farmer Allegedly Killed on His Way to the Farm
The letter also highlighted the killing of Alhassan Ndaba on April 15, 2026.
Residents alleged that bandits attacked and murdered the farmer while he travelled to his farmland.
They described Ndaba as a hardworking man who lost his life while trying to provide for his family.
Bandits Invade Community, Loot Homes and Shops
On July 10, 2026, armed bandits reportedly stormed Lata Nna in broad daylight.
Residents said the attackers moved from house to house, stealing food items, money and mobile phones.
They also looted several shops before escaping with goods.
Furthermore, the bandits allegedly stole four motorcycles worth about N1.6 million, disrupting transportation and businesses operated by young people.
Armed Men Move Freely Through Community
The community also recounted another attack on June 13, 2026.
According to the residents, four armed bandits riding two motorcycles entered the community without resistance.
They reportedly searched for petrol, recharge cards and other valuables.
The residents said the incident created widespread fear because the attackers operated openly.
June 26 Attack Leaves Community Isolated
The residents described June 26, 2026, as the darkest day in the community’s recent history.
They alleged that bandits blocked the only road linking Lata Nna to neighbouring communities.
The blockade reportedly cut residents off from hospitals, markets and emergency assistance.
During the attack, two residents returning home were allegedly shot dead.
The community said the incident effectively turned Lata Nna into a hostage zone.
More Robberies Deepen Residents’ Hardship
According to the letter, attacks continued after the road blockade.
On June 27, 2026, villagers gathering leaves behind the community reportedly came under attack.
The armed men allegedly robbed them of their phones and cash.
Similarly, on July 15, 2026, a Point of Sale (POS) operator reportedly lost cash to armed robbers shortly after withdrawing money from a bank for business.
Community Demands Immediate Government Action
The residents called on President Tinubu to immediately deploy security personnel to Lata Nna.
They also requested sustained military and security operations to clear bandits from surrounding forests.
In addition, they appealed for justice and support for families of victims, especially Alhassan Ndaba and the two residents killed on June 26.
The community stressed that insecurity has made farming, trading and everyday life nearly impossible.
“Mr President, we voted for hope and security. Please do not let Lata Nna be wiped off the map. Please hear our cry and come to our rescue.”
The residents added that attacks have continued for two years without lasting intervention.
“We can no longer go to our farms, we can no longer go to the market, and we can no longer sleep with our eyes closed. Our only road is a death trap. Our community is bleeding.”
They urged the Federal Government to restore security and protect lives before more communities suffer similar attacks.
