The Government of the Republic of Benin has shut its border with several Nigerian communities in Kwara State due to rising concerns over arms trafficking and the emergence of a new terrorist group known as Mahmuda.
Sources confirmed to Reporters that on Tuesday, May 7, 2025, the President of Benin Republic ordered a complete border closure between Taberu, a village in Baruten Local Government Area of Kwara State, and Tanu, a nearby community in Benin.
A local security official confirmed the directive, saying, “The President of Benin Republic closed the borders between Taberu in Nigeria and Tanu in Benin, halting the movement of goods and people.”
This move followed intelligence reports and viral video footage alleging that illegal arms and ammunition are being transported into Nigeria from Parakou, the capital of Borgou Department in Benin Republic. The narrator in the video claimed that weapons were often flown into Nigeria by helicopters from Parakou, though the final destination of the arms remains unknown.
“They bring bullets and weapons via helicopters from Parakou. But we don’t know where they go once inside Nigeria,” the source said.
The closure has reportedly been further triggered by fears surrounding the group Mahmuda, which is believed to be responsible for an increase in cross-border violence and trafficking of military-grade weapons.
According to the eyewitness, individuals have blocked the only accessible road connecting Taberu and Tanu, effectively sealing the entry point between the two countries. “Anyone coming from Benin can’t pass through, and no one from Nigeria can enter either,” the source explained.
Reacting to the development, Abdullahi Maiwada, spokesperson for the Nigerian Customs Service, told Reporters, “I will make my findings and get across. I don’t think it’s something I should conclude on without proper verification.”
The development adds to growing concerns about regional security and the ease with which weapons are allegedly being smuggled across the porous borders of West Africa.
