Insecurity Disrupts Ramadan in Kwara as Families Avoid Night Mosque Prayers Over Fear of Attacks
Fear and insecurity have disrupted Ramadan activities in several communities in Kwara State, forcing many Muslim families to stop attending night mosque prayers.
Residents in parts of Edu Local Government Area and Kaiama Local Government Area said they now observe prayers like Tarawih, Maghrib, and Isha’i inside their homes due to fear of attacks.
Communities affected include Gbugbu, Yikpata, Kali, Baburasa, and Gada Oli.
According to residents, the decision was taken after repeated attacks by suspected terrorists in nearby rural areas, especially during the night.
A resident of Gbugbu said fear spread after armed men reportedly entered the community during Ramadan and abducted several people. Since then, mosque attendance has dropped sharply.
“Before, the mosque used to be full during Tarawih. But after the attack and abductions, nobody wants to take that risk again,” the resident said.
Another community member explained that even evening prayers are now done quietly at home.
“Once it gets dark, everywhere becomes silent. People pray inside their houses because moving around at night is no longer safe,” the resident explained.
Fear has also increased following the killing of over 170 people in nearby Woro, an incident residents say changed everything.
“What happened in Woro broke our confidence. People are scared to gather at night because nobody knows where the attackers may strike next,” a resident of Baburasa said.
Despite the spiritual importance of congregational prayers during Ramadan, many families say safety now comes first.
“We know the reward of praying together during Ramadan is great, but life is more important. That is why families now pray together at home,” another resident said.
Residents have called on authorities to strengthen security in the affected areas, warning that continued fear could further damage religious and social life during the holy month.
