Panic gripped residents of Idoani in Ondo State after armed bandits attacked the town’s police station in the early hours of Monday. The attackers stormed the station around 2 a.m., opening fire and attempting to overrun the facility.
Eyewitnesses said the gunmen arrived in large numbers, heavily armed and shooting sporadically. The sound of gunfire forced many residents to flee their homes or hide indoors. “We couldn’t sleep. The gunshots were loud and nonstop,” a resident told reporters.
The police, however, repelled the attackers after a fierce exchange of gunfire. Though no officer was killed, reports said one sustained injuries. Authorities have yet to confirm any casualties among the attackers.
Security sources believe the gunmen aimed to free suspects in custody or seize weapons. The swift response by officers reportedly prevented the attackers from breaching the station’s armoury.
Ondo State Police Command spokesman, Funmilayo Odunlami, confirmed the incident. She said officers acted bravely and assured residents that the situation was under control. “Our men repelled the attack. Normalcy has returned, and investigations are ongoing,” she said.
Following the attack, security patrols have increased across Idoani and nearby communities. Residents urged the government to beef up security in the area, saying the assault shows that banditry is spreading beyond the North.
The state government condemned the attack and vowed to support security agencies in tracking down the culprits. No group has claimed responsibility, but authorities suspect criminal gangs expanding operations in the South.
