Child killed by terrorist-planted roadside explosive in Kwara, Nigeria

Suspected terrorists planted roadside explosives in Baruteen Local Government Area of Kwara State, Nigeria, killing a child after villagers reportedly refused to pay a N10 million monthly levy.

The device detonated on Saturday in Duruma village as two children were walking to deliver food to relatives working on a farm. One child stepped on the explosive and died instantly; her sibling sustained a broken leg.

Residents accused the armed group of planting explosives along routes used by farmers and travellers to intimidate communities that rejected its financial demands. They said the attacks have heightened fear during the harvesting season, when villagers must frequently travel to their farmlands.

The Kwara State Police Command spokesperson, SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, had not responded to calls and messages seeking comment as of the time of reporting. Residents urged security agencies to investigate the explosion and protect rural communities from further attacks.