Reported by: Ime Richard Aondofa | Edited by: Henry Owen
The Kwara State Government has issued a strong advisory to residents, particularly those in the local government areas of Ekiti, Ifelodun, Isin, Oke Ero, and Irepodun, urging them to remain highly vigilant and restrict movements to only essential activities. This comes amid intensified joint security operations aimed at dismantling kidnappers’ hideouts in border communities linking Kwara and Kogi States.
The development follows a renewed onslaught by combined security forces against criminal gangs that have for months terrorized communities and highways along the Kwara–Kogi corridor. According to intelligence reports, many of the kidnappers are believed to be using the thick forests across the border regions as safe havens. The escalation of operations, therefore, raises both hope for safety and concerns about possible spillover effects on nearby residents.
Commissioner for Communications, Bolanle Olukoju, in a statement on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, explained that the government’s decision to issue the advisory was borne out of a need to protect innocent citizens while security agencies continue their mission.
“We urge residents to be very cautious and reduce movements to the barest minimum to avoid unforeseen incidents as the criminals attempt to escape their hideouts. The safety of law-abiding citizens remains our top priority,” she stated.
Olukoju acknowledged that the advice could cause temporary inconveniences but stressed that it was a necessary sacrifice in the broader fight to restore peace and security. She appealed to residents to show understanding, noting that their cooperation would assist the security agencies in effectively flushing out the criminals.
According to her, the intensified operations are already yielding results, as security agencies have successfully dislodged several camps used by kidnappers in hard-to-reach areas. She emphasized that the state government remains unwavering in its commitment to support every security effort aimed at protecting lives and property.
“We appreciate the renewed onslaught by the security agencies against these criminals and encourage them to sustain the momentum until the perpetrators are completely neutralized and flushed out of our forests,” Olukoju added.
The government’s position reflects growing concern about the activities of kidnappers and armed bandits across Nigeria, with many states battling similar security threats. In recent years, communities in Kwara South, especially those sharing borders with Kogi, have been vulnerable to kidnappings, highway attacks, and violent crimes. These challenges have heightened the call for improved security architecture and inter-state collaboration to tackle the menace.
Residents have been advised to promptly report suspicious movements or persons within their communities to law enforcement agencies. Local vigilantes have also been placed on alert to work with security operatives in ensuring that criminals do not regroup after being dislodged.
The Kwara State Government reiterated its determination to create a safe environment for businesses, farming, and social activities to thrive without fear of violence or criminal intimidation. The latest measures, though temporarily restrictive, are part of a long-term plan to ensure sustainable peace and stability across the state.
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