By Olatunbosun Obafemi
A newly identified terrorist group, Mahmuda, is reportedly attempting to flee Nigeria through border communities in Kwara State amid heightened military operations targeting insurgent activities nationwide.
An exclusive audio recording obtained by journalists early Thursday revealed plans by the group to escape into the Benin Republic via Baruten Local Government Area. A senior security official, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed that the group is seeking alternative exit routes after the military effectively shut down their traditional access points in northwestern Nigeria.
“Intelligence indicates that Mahmuda is plotting to flee into the Benin Republic due to increased military pressure and anticipated operations against them,” the official disclosed.
Previously, the group utilized infiltration routes through Kosubosu, Kaiama, Wawa, and Gwarapa—corridors now under close surveillance by security forces. With these paths compromised, attention has shifted to other vulnerable border areas.
Security personnel have reportedly been placed on high alert across affected zones, with calls for immediate action from local and federal authorities. “All district heads in border communities must mobilize local vigilantes. Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq needs to act swiftly by reinforcing security across these routes,” the source emphasized.
He further urged military leadership, including the Chief of Army Staff and the Commander of Sobi Barracks in Ilorin, to coordinate operations aimed at sealing off alternative escape routes, particularly through Gwanara and Tabira.
“If these exits are closed, the terrorists will be trapped. It’s critical that forest guards and local security forces intensify patrols, especially along the Tabira-Gwanara axis, which offers direct access to the Benin Republic,” the source added.
The alert follows a brutal attack allegedly carried out by the Mahmuda group in Ilesha Baruba earlier this week. Eyewitnesses reported that heavily armed militants in military camouflage stormed the town on motorcycles shortly after Isha prayers on Monday, opening fire on civilians without warning.
“It was like a war zone,” recounted Umar Faruq, a survivor. “They wore military uniforms, so we thought they were on patrol. Moments later, they started shooting. People were falling all around me.”
A disturbing video from the scene showed bodies lying motionless in pools of blood, with anguished cries echoing in the background. Many described the incident as a calculated and coordinated terror operation.
The Turaki of Ilesha Baruba, a prominent traditional leader, confirmed the attack and condemned it as an assault on the community’s peace and security. “This wasn’t just an attack on individuals; it was an attack on our sovereignty. Our people are terrified. The government must act -immediately and decisively.”
As the military ramps up efforts to dismantle terror cells, the attempted escape of the Mahmuda group underscores the ongoing challenge of securing Nigeria’s porous borders and protecting vulnerable communities from insurgent threats.
