Deadly retaliatory violence in Kwara leaves two dead, properties destroyed

The Kwara State Police Command has launched a manhunt for individuals involved in a violent outbreak in Ilesha Baruba that left two people dead and led to the destruction of several properties belonging to members of the Fulani community.

The incident, which occurred in Baruten Local Government Area, was disclosed in a statement issued on May 31, 2026, by the command’s spokesperson, SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi.

According to the police, the unrest was triggered by a confrontation between an unidentified Fulani man and an Islamic scholar, Mohammed Ilyasu. The altercation reportedly escalated into a violent clash during which both men sustained severe machete injuries.

The victims were rushed to a hospital for treatment. However, police authorities said Mohammed Ilyasu was confirmed dead on arrival, while the other injured man later succumbed to his wounds while receiving medical care.

The situation reportedly deteriorated shortly after news of the deaths spread. According to the police, a group of youths stormed the hospital, forcefully removed the corpse of the deceased suspect and set it ablaze.

In a further escalation of the violence, another man who was said to be passing through the area was allegedly attacked by the mob and burnt to death.

READ ALSO: Gunmen attack Kwara communities, burn Emir’s palace, kill worshippers

The police also revealed that the violence extended to property destruction, with approximately 10 buildings belonging to members of the Fulani community razed by angry youths.

Among the structures destroyed was the residence of the Ardo Fulani, Alhaji Hassan, a prominent leader within the community.

Following the outbreak, security agencies moved swiftly to prevent further violence. A joint team of police officers and military personnel was deployed to the affected area, restoring calm and strengthening security presence across the community.

Reacting to the incident, the Commissioner of Police in Kwara State, Ojo Adekimi, strongly condemned the attacks and warned residents against engaging in acts of mob justice or retaliation.

“No individual or group has the right to take the law into their own hands irrespective of the circumstances surrounding any incident,” the police commissioner stated.

He assured residents that the command remained committed to maintaining law and order and would ensure that all those responsible for the killings, arson, and other criminal acts are identified and brought to justice.

The police command further disclosed that investigations into the incident are ongoing, while efforts have been intensified to track down and arrest the perpetrators.

Authorities have urged residents to remain calm, cooperate with security agencies, and provide useful information that could aid ongoing investigations as the state works to prevent a recurrence of such violence