The Emir of Yashikira, Umoru Seriki, from Baruten Local Government Area in Kwara State, has expressed deep worry over attacks by a new terror group called ‘Mahmuda’. He says the group has taken over parts of Kwara North and Niger State.

In a recent interview with Daily Post, the Emir said that people in the affected communities feel abandoned by the government. He stated, “We are completely demoralized. Authorities say there are no terrorists here, but that’s not true. We feel left alone and must now defend ourselves.”

According to him, the group is active in Baruten and Kaiama local governments in Kwara, and also in Borgu Kingdom in Niger. Last week, terrorists bombed a security vehicle that locals bought for their vigilante team. Luckily, the vigilantes survived, though some were injured.

He confirmed that some people were hurt and both sides suffered casualties, though not as many as social media claimed. “The reports on social media are true,” he said. “We are just praying for God’s help and protection.”

Meanwhile, the Kwara State Police Command denied that the group exists. They said there is no proof of terrorist activity in the area. A police spokesperson, SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, said their checks found no evidence of attacks or terror camps, and reports of 15 vigilantes being killed are false.

The police assured the public that all security forces are active and working together to keep the state safe. They asked people not to share unverified news that could cause panic. They also encouraged citizens to report any suspicious activity through proper channels.