Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has strongly condemned fresh bandit attacks across the state. He described the renewed violence as “unacceptable” and called for stronger security measures now.
Another Bloody Weekend in Kwara
Between Thursday night and Sunday morning, armed bandits struck again in several communities.
The worst hit areas include:
- Isin Local Government Area
- Patigi Local Government Area
- Baruten Local Government Area
At least eight farmers were killed. Many others were kidnapped. Houses were burnt. Farms were destroyed. Residents ran into the bush for safety.
One survivor told reporters, “They came around 2 a.m. with guns and cutlasses. They shot anyone who tried to run.”
Governor’s Strong Statement
On Monday morning, Governor AbdulRazaq visited some of the affected villages. He spoke to victims and traditional rulers.
– Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq
What the Governor Ordered
The governor announced new steps right on the spot:
– More police and army patrols 24/7
– Joint security base in Isin LGA within one week
– Immediate recruitment of more local hunters and vigilantes
– Better vehicles and communication gadgets for security teams
– Direct phone line for citizens to report strange movements
He also promised quick payment of allowances to security officers working in the troubled areas.
Full Security Orders Issued by Governor AbdulRazaq
- Deploy additional 200 police officers to Isin, Patigi and Baruten
- Set up forward operating base in Olla town within 7 days
- Provide 10 new patrol vehicles and 50 motorcycles
- Pay special risk allowance to all officers in hot spots
- Launch “See Something, Say Something” hotline: 0800-KWARA-SAFE
- Work with neighbouring states to block escape routes
Residents Speak Out
Mallam Yusuf from Share said, “We are happy the governor came himself. We have not slept well for weeks.”
A woman who lost her husband cried, “They killed my husband in the farm. Please let the soldiers stay here.”
Security Chiefs React
Commissioner of Police, Victor Olaiya, promised quick action.
“We have already started Operation Flush. We will smoke them out of the forests,” he said.
The Brigade Commander, 22 Armoured Brigade, Ilorin, also assured residents of more troops.
Opposition and Civil Society Agree
Even opposition parties in Kwara praised the governor’s quick response.
PDP spokesman, Alhaji Musa Idris, said, “This is not time for politics. We stand with the governor.”
Civil society groups asked for long-term plans, not just soldiers. They want:
- Better roads to villages
- More schools and jobs for youth
- Light in rural areas at night
Recent Attacks – Timeline
- Thursday Nov 13 – 3 farmers killed in Isin
- Friday Nov 14 – 7 people kidnapped along Patigi-Kainji road
- Saturday Nov 15 – Houses burnt in Baruten
- Sunday Nov 16 – 5 killed in fresh Isin attack
- Monday Nov 17 – Governor visits affected areas
History of Attacks in Kwara
Kwara was once seen as one of the most peaceful states in North-Central Nigeria.
But in the last two years, bandits from neighbouring states have been entering through thick forests.
Experts say poverty and unemployment make some youth easy to recruit by criminals.
Hope at Last?
Many residents now hope the governor’s anger will turn into real action.
A community leader in Patigi told our reporter: “We have heard promises before. This time we want results. We want to farm and sleep without fear.”
What Happens Next
The state government has set up a special security trust fund. Citizens and companies can donate.
Governor AbdulRazaq promised to give monthly updates on the fight against bandits.
He ended his visit with strong words: “To the criminals – your days are numbered. Kwara will never be your home.”
