Protesters Decry Insecurity in Kwara South, Urge Urgent Government Intervention
Residents of Kwara South, under the aegis of the Kwara South Development Forum, have taken to the streets to protest what they described as worsening insecurity across their communities, calling on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq to take immediate action.
The protesters alleged that armed groups, which they described as terrorists, have overrun several indigenous Yoruba communities in the region, leading to killings, kidnappings, and widespread displacement of residents.
They warned that entire communities have been taken over, while local vigilante structures have been weakened or dismantled, leaving residents vulnerable.
Speaking during the protest, the convener of the forum, Obashola Ayomide Ridwan, described the situation as dire, alleging that informants have aided attackers in targeting local security leaders.
According to him, several vigilante commanders were identified and killed, paving the way for armed groups to take control of affected communities.
“Our local vigilante commanders were identified by informants, and the attackers eliminated them one after another before taking over our communities,” he said.
Ridwan added that the impact has been severe, with families displaced and schools shut down across parts of Kwara South. He called on both federal and state authorities to strengthen local security structures and support community-based defense systems.
Some protesters shared personal experiences of loss and displacement. A resident, Adebisi Jimoh, said her community in Babanla has been largely deserted due to repeated attacks, forcing many families to flee.
Another protester, Sodiq Amidu, recounted how two of his associates were abducted and later released after paying heavy ransom, highlighting the growing threat of kidnapping in the area.
Also speaking, activist Aleshinloye Saheed stressed that the killing of local vigilante leaders has left communities exposed, allowing attackers to consolidate control in parts of the region.
The protesters further called on traditional rulers in Kwara South to unite and engage the presidency, emphasizing the need for coordinated and high-level intervention to address the crisis.
They warned that without urgent steps — including improved security presence and support for local vigilantes — the region could face deeper instability.
The group vowed to continue peaceful demonstrations until concrete measures are taken to restore security, rebuild affected communities, and enable displaced residents to return to their homes.
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