Panic gripped residents of Ipele, a community in Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State, after armed men launched a brazen night attack on the local police divisional headquarters late Wednesday, December 31, 2025.
The assault occurred as many Christian worshippers were preparing for crossover services, sending residents and police officers scrambling for safety amid sustained gunfire.
Witnesses said the attackers, estimated to be about 20 in number, stormed the town around 10 p.m., arriving in a coordinated fashion and shooting indiscriminately before advancing on the police facility.
The station was later set ablaze during the onslaught.
A resident stated, “It was clearly a terrorist-style operation. They came in a commando manner, shooting nonstop. Many people fled into nearby bushes. The sound of the gunshots was overwhelming; nobody could stay outside.”
Although the full extent of casualties and damage had yet to be confirmed at press time, the incident threw the community into confusion, with families abandoning homes to seek refuge.
Spokesperson for the Ondo State Police Command, Jimoh Abayomi, confirmed the attack but said details were still being compiled.
He stated, “Yes, it happened. We will release comprehensive information once the investigations progress.”
Security personnel from sister agencies have reportedly been deployed to the area to restore calm and prevent further breakdown of law and order.
