Residents of Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, were thrown into panic on Friday after a bold daylight robbery occurred along the busy Post Office–Murtala Mohammed Road. The attack, which happened around 11:30 a.m., left a commercial vehicle driver injured and sparked fresh concerns about safety in the heart of the metropolis.
According to information released by the Kwara State Police Command, the victim, who was driving a Sienna vehicle, was attacked by armed men who reportedly trailed him before striking. The gunmen shot the driver in the palm and escaped with an undisclosed amount of cash he was transporting. The driver is currently receiving medical treatment.
The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Adetoun Ejire Adeyemi, confirmed the incident in a statement issued in Ilorin on Friday. She said the Commissioner of Police, Mr. Adekimi Ojo, had ordered a thorough investigation into the robbery and directed security agencies to step up surveillance across the city.
The location of the attack, one of the busiest areas in Ilorin, has left many residents worried. The Post Office–Murtala Mohammed axis hosts banks, commercial centres, transport hubs, and government offices. It is known for heavy foot and vehicle traffic throughout the day. For many residents, the fact that armed robbers could carry out an attack there in broad daylight is a sign that criminals may be getting bolder.
This concern is not new. In recent months, residents have complained about rising incidents of phone snatching, burglary, and attacks on commuters, especially during early morning and late evening hours. Although the police have made several arrests in the past, Friday’s incident has renewed calls for stronger surveillance and quicker security response.
The Commissioner of Police acknowledged these fears and assured the public that the command had immediately increased police presence in the Ilorin metropolis. He said more patrol teams have been deployed on major roads, especially around key financial institutions and high-traffic areas.
The police used the opportunity to caution residents against carrying large amounts of money, especially during the festive season when crimes often rise. The CP advised that online banking and electronic transfers should be used whenever possible to reduce the risk of attacks targeting cash movement.
“In cases where cash movement is unavoidable,” the police statement added, “the public is strongly advised to make use of trusted bank escort services to ensure safe transportation of funds.”
The command also appealed to the public to assist security agencies by reporting suspicious individuals, movements, and activities around banks, ATM points, and business areas. According to the police, timely reporting of suspicious behaviour can help avert crimes before they happen.
While Kwara State is generally regarded as peaceful compared to some other states in the country, the capital city has seen pockets of criminal activity in recent years. These include isolated armed robbery incidents, cult clashes, and targeted attacks on individuals carrying cash.
In 2022 and 2023, the Kwara State Police Command recorded several cases of robbery involving tricycles, motorcycles, and vehicles used to track victims from banks. Some suspects were arrested, but police have continued to warn against moving large amounts of money without protection.
Friday’s attack appears to follow a similar pattern, although police have not released full details pending the completion of their investigation.
Following the incident, traders, transport workers, and shop owners along the Post Office–Murtala Mohammed corridor urged the state government and security operatives to tighten security in the area. Many expressed worry that criminals may take advantage of the busy environment to blend in with crowds and escape easily.
A commercial driver who witnessed the aftermath of the attack described it as “shocking and frightening.” He said, “If robbers can attack someone here in broad daylight, then nobody is safe. This area is always busy. We need more security men around.”
Despite the fears, the Kwara State Police Command urged residents to remain calm. The Commissioner of Police assured that the culprits would be tracked down and arrested. He reaffirmed the commitment of the command to protect lives and property across the state.
As investigations continue, police patrol vehicles have become more visible in strategic parts of Ilorin, particularly around banks, commercial centres, and major roads. The command promised that these measures would remain in place to reassure residents and deter criminals.