A 40-year-old labourer, Abdullahi Shuaibu, was fatally shot during an attempted kidnapping by suspected armed bandits in Ekko village, Edu Local Government Area (LGA), Kwara State, on Sunday morning at approximately 1:50 a.m.

The incident occurred when a gang of armed men launched a coordinated attack on the residence of 50-year-old Idris Jibril in the village, firing multiple rounds to force entry. Although the attackers failed to breach the house, Shuaibu who had been sleeping outdoors nearby was struck by a stray bullet to the head and died at the scene.

Following the failed operation, the assailants fled, leaving behind three spent AK-47 cartridges, which were recovered by residents. The community has since called for increased security presence to curb rising violence in the region.

Confirming the incident, a security source said investigations were underway to identify and apprehend the perpetrators. The victim's body has been taken to a nearby mortuary for autopsy.

Meanwhile, residents of Ekko and neighbouring communities are urging authorities to step up surveillance and patrols in the region, citing escalating fears over the activities of armed groups operating in the area.