How Gunmen Killed PDP Ward Chairman and Son in Night Attack

Tragedy struck in Kwara State on Tuesday night as unidentified gunmen stormed Lile Village near the Ndeji community in Patigi Local Government Area, killing a ward chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Alhaji Kpotun, and his son in cold blood.

According to multiple sources, the assailants invaded the residence of the PDP chieftain and opened fire without warning, killing both father and son on the spot. A former local government chairman, who confirmed the incident to Daily Trust, said, “The deceased and his son were shot dead during the invasion.”

The motive behind the attack remains unclear as no ransom was demanded—raising fears of politically or communally motivated violence. A local community leader, Alhaji Mohammed Ahmed, revealed this was the third such case in recent times, suggesting a “deeper motive” behind the killings.

The Kwara State Police Command has yet to release an official statement on the incident as of Wednesday afternoon.

Reacting to the development, former Senate President and PDP national leader, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, expressed deep sorrow over the deaths, calling the act “gruesome” and “heartbreaking.”

“This is a devastating loss. I am deeply saddened by the killing of Alhaji Kpotun and his son,” Saraki said in a statement. He offered prayers for the repose of their souls and urged the Kwara State Government and security agencies to act swiftly. “The protection of lives and property must be a top priority,” he added.

Meanwhile, in Niger State, the Nigerian Army confirmed that its troops, in collaboration with the Nigerian Air Force, repelled a coordinated bandit attack in the Bangi community of Mariga LGA, killing scores of terrorists in the process.

The army said over 300 bandits had launched a nighttime transit through Kwanar Dutse Forest when troops engaged them in a fierce three-hour gun battle. Despite successfully neutralizing many terrorists, the army lost 17 soldiers in the operation, with 10 others injured.

Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Lt. Col. Apolonia Anele, described the encounter as a valiant stand against terror. “Precision airstrikes delivered by the Nigerian Air Force on withdrawal routes inflicted heavy damage on the terrorists,” she stated. Blood trails along escape paths indicated significant enemy casualties, although the exact number is yet to be confirmed.

The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Oluwafemi Oluyede, extended condolences to the families of the fallen soldiers and ordered the best medical care for the wounded. “The Nigerian Army remains resolute in its mission to protect lives and secure all communities across the nation,” he said.