In a high-stakes development that has sent shockwaves through Nigeria’s security architecture, members of a newly identified terrorist faction, codenamed Mahmuda, are reportedly orchestrating a covert escape route into the Benin Republic via Kwara State’s porous border communities.
This revelation comes amid intensified military operations targeting terror cells in Nigeria’s troubled northwest, forcing insurgents to seek alternative sanctuary beyond national borders.
SaharaReporters obtained an exclusive audio recording on Thursday morning, exposing the group’s intentions to flee through Baruteen Local Government Area—a critical border corridor in Kwara State.
A senior security operative familiar with the situation raised the alarm, calling for swift government intervention before the group vanishes beyond reach.
“Intelligence at my disposal indicates that the Mahmuda terrorist group, in response to looming military operations against them, is plotting an escape into the Benin Republic,” the source disclosed.
“Previously, they infiltrated the North-West through corridors like Kosubosu, Kaiama, Wawa, and Gwarapa, but those routes have now been effectively sealed off by security forces. Their only remaining exit lies in the border communities of Kwara State.”
The source issued a stern warning to traditional rulers and local authorities, urging community vigilance.
“This is a clarion call to all district heads across the border zones. Local vigilantes must be placed on high alert. Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq must convene emergency security briefings and coordinate a robust response,” the insider urged.
He further called on top military officials, including the Chief of Army Staff and the Commander of Sobi Barracks in Ilorin, to tighten surveillance around key escape points such as Gwanara and Tabira.
“If those borders are effectively blocked, the group will have no passage. Forest guards and community-based security teams must also be mobilized to sweep the dense terrains. The intelligence is solid—this escape route leads directly to Benin.”
The warning comes on the heels of a brutal terrorist assault in Ilesha Baruba, Baruten LGA, barely three days ago. According to eyewitnesses, the heavily armed assailants, dressed in Nigerian Army camouflage, struck shortly after Isha prayers on Monday.
Riding motorcycles and wielding sophisticated weapons, they stormed the town through the main highway that connects it to the state capital, unleashing terror and bloodshed.
Eyewitness video obtained by SaharaReporters shows lifeless bodies strewn across the blood-soaked ground, while anguished cries of survivors echo in the background—a grim reminder of the community’s vulnerability.
“They looked like soldiers. At first, we thought they were on patrol,” recounted Umar Faruq, a survivor. “But then they opened fire. It was chaos—people screaming and running for their lives. It was like a war zone.”
The Turaki of Ilesha Baruba, a revered traditional leader, confirmed the attack and issued a passionate plea to the government.
“This wasn’t just a terrorist attack—it was a declaration of war on our peace and sovereignty. Our people are living in fear. The government must act now before more lives are lost,” he said.
Security analysts warn that once the Mahmuda group crosses into Benin Republic, efforts to apprehend them could become infinitely more complex due to international jurisdiction challenges.
“There’s a narrow window to intercept them,” the security source cautioned. “If the government fails to act decisively, we risk letting a dangerous group disappear into thin air, only to resurface later with greater vengeance.”
As the nation grapples with escalating insecurity, the question remains—will authorities heed the call before Mahmuda slips through the cracks?
PIONEER NEWS 