BREAKING: Terrorists Attack, Burn Down Police Station On New Year’s Day
Residents of Ipele community in Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State were thrown into panic in the early hours of Thursday, January 1, 2026, after suspected terrorists attacked and set the local police station ablaze.
According to information gathered, the assailants stormed the police facility during the early hours of the day and set it on fire, completely razing parts of the station. The attack triggered fear across the community, forcing many residents to flee their homes and go into hiding.
A video circulating online showed the police station engulfed in flames, with several vehicles parked within the premises also burned during the attack.
As of the time of filing this report, it could not be independently confirmed whether any police officers or civilians were killed or injured in the incident. However, some individuals believed to be police officers were later seen at the scene, assessing the extent of the damage and inspecting the facility after the attack.
Efforts to obtain an official response from the Ondo State Police Command proved unsuccessful at the time of reporting.
The latest attack has renewed concerns about security in Ondo State. Although the state has largely been considered peaceful, it has previously experienced a major terrorist incident.
On June 5, 2022, suspected terrorists attacked St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Owo, killing at least 40 worshippers, with some reports estimating the death toll at over 80. Dozens of others were injured in the attack, which occurred during the administration of former Governor Rotimi Akeredolu and shocked the nation.
Residents of Ipele have called on security agencies to strengthen their presence in the area to prevent further attacks and restore confidence in the community.
