The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu psc(+), NPM, embarked on an operational visit to Kaiama in Kwara State, and commended gallant officers of the Kwara State Police Command and detectives of the Intelligence Response Team following the successful arrest of 32 suspected bandits linked to kidnapping, cattle rustling, and other violent crimes. The arrests were made during sustained intelligence-led operations targeting criminal networks operating within forest corridors and rural communities across the state. In a joint operation by the Kwara State Police Command and the Intelligence Response Team (IRT), the suspects were apprehended during coordinated raids on criminal hideouts. Investigations revealed that the suspects belong to different gangs using forests around Awi, Kaiama, Patigi, Gbugbu, Tsaraji, and Babanla as operational hideouts. Among those arrested are two foreign nationals from the Niger Republic, suspected of collaborating with local bandit groups in cross-border criminal activities. During coordinated raids, police operatives recovered five (5) walkie-talkie communication devices, 38 rounds of live ammunition, four (4) AK-47 rifles and a camouflage hydration backpack suspected to have been used by the criminal groups to coordinate attacks and evade security patrols. Further investigations also led to the arrest of Umar Mohammed, a suspect from Jos in Plateau State, alleged to have supplied communication devices to bandits, alongside other individuals suspected of providing logistics and support to the criminal network. Speaking during the visit, the IGP noted that the arrests were the outcome of coordinated operations by the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies aimed at dismantling criminal networks operating within forest locations across the region. He commended the officers for their professionalism and urged residents to continue providing credible information to security agencies. The Commissioner of Police, Kwara State Command, CP Adekimi Ojo psc, mnips reaffirms his commitment to intensify operations against banditry and restore safety to affected communities. He assured that all suspects in custody will be thoroughly investigated and prosecuted in accordance with the law, while efforts continue to track down other members of the criminal gangs still at large.
Prominent businessman and Chairman of Stafolga Group and Flow FM, Araba Femi Sanni, has backed growing calls for the establishment of state police, saying improved security across Nigeria’s states is critical to economic growth and investor confidence.
Sanni spoke with journalists at the Ilorin International Airport on Monday while departing the city, noting that Nigeria’s long-term economic strength will depend largely on how successfully its states evolve into vibrant and competitive economic centres.
Drawing from his experience in private enterprise and exposure to global business environments, he said countries widely regarded as fast-growing economies typically have several thriving subnational economies driving national development.
According to him, Nigeria currently relies on only a few such economic hubs — Lagos, Abuja and Port Harcourt — a situation he said limits the country’s global economic image and broader development potential.
“If more states develop into vibrant economic centres, Nigeria will naturally be better perceived globally as a fast-developing nation,” he said.
Sanni stressed that security remains a decisive factor in unlocking such growth, describing it as a critical asset for attracting investment.
“No serious investor will commit resources in an environment where security is uncertain,” he said, adding that the creation of state police could significantly strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture by bringing law enforcement closer to communities.
According to him, state policing would also improve accountability by empowering governors to function effectively as chief security officers of their states.
He added that the introduction of state police could deepen healthy competition among governors, particularly in the area of security management and public safety.
Sanni attributed the evolution of governance competition among states partly to the leadership example set by Bola Ahmed Tinubu during his tenure as governor of Lagos State.
He noted that beyond infrastructure development, states could begin to compete in the future on the efficiency, professionalism and effectiveness of their policing systems.
Addressing concerns about possible abuse, Sanni said Nigeria previously operated regional police during the First Republic and already runs several community-based security outfits across states.
“In the face of banditry, terrorism and insurgency, strengthening security structures is not optional,” he said.
… Hails supports of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for the Armed Forces
The Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede, has launched Operation Savannah Shield in Kwara State as part of renewed efforts to tackle insecurity and criminal activities across Kwara and neighbouring Niger State.
Speaking during a courtesy visit to Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, the Defence Chief said the operation was designed to checkmate criminal elements responsible for recent security challenges within the region.
Oluyede said his visit also served as an opportunity to commiserate with the government and people of Kwara State over casualties recorded from recent security incidents.
“Your Excellency, I am here briefly to pay homage. The essence of my coming to Kwara today is to launch Operation Savannah Shield,” he said.
He explained that the new operation is a joint task force bringing together combat units from different security formations to strengthen coordinated responses against insecurity.
According to him, the Armed Forces have aggregated personnel and operational assets under a unified command structure to improve effectiveness on the field.
“With this robust approach, we believe that things will get better within Kwara and Niger States,” the Defence Chief stated.
Oluyede acknowledged the security pressures facing the Armed Forces and appealed for continued collaboration between federal and state authorities, noting that logistics and operational support remain critical to achieving lasting results.
He specifically commended Governor AbdulRazaq, who also chairs the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, for his consistent support to the military and security agencies nationwide.
“It is important for me to put it on record that you have been very supportive, not only to the Brigade but to the entire Armed Forces of Nigeria,” he said, adding that sustained cooperation from state governments would further strengthen ongoing operations.
The launch of Operation Savannah Shield is expected to enhance intelligence sharing, improve rapid response capabilities, and restore confidence in communities affected by security threats across the Kwara–Niger corridor.
… Governors agree on joint security measures to curb attacks in border communities
Kwara State Governor and Chairman of the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF), Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, has paid a condolence visit to farmer Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago over the recent terrorist attacks in some communities under Borgu Emirate in Niger State.
Governor Abdulrazaq described the terrorist attacks as unfortunate and heartbreaking, saying their nefarious activities have claimed many lives, destroyed livelihoods, and rendered many homeless.
He extended the sympathy of the Kwara State government and the Nigeria Governors Forum to the government and people of Niger State and assured that efforts will continue to be made in collaboration with relevant authorities to address the security challenges across the country.
He revealed that both states convened a joint security council session where they discussed intelligence sharing and coordinated strategies to address insurgency and other criminal activities along their shared borders.
According to him, strengthened cooperation between the two states is necessary to prevent further loss of lives and restore confidence among residents of the affected communities.
Governor Bago said the discussions centred on practical steps to improve joint security operations and enhance surveillance across border areas.
He noted that tighter coordination between security agencies and both state governments would be critical in curbing renewed attacks and protecting vulnerable communities.
…Governor Confirms Military Response After Briefing President on Kaiama Attack
Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has confirmed the immediate deployment of the first commander for Operation Savannah Shield to Ilorin, following President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive to confront terrorist elements in the state.
The announcement came after Governor AbdulRazaq met with the President on Thursday in Abuja to brief him on Tuesday’s deadly attack in Kaiama Local Government Area, which reportedly claimed over 160 lives.
The Governor expressed appreciation for the swift federal response in establishing the new military operation aimed at restoring security in affected regions. He stated that the commander has already begun operational activities, emphasizing confidence in the military’s capacity to stabilize the area.
President Tinubu had earlier ordered the deployment of an army battalion to launch Operation Savannah Shield, with clear instructions to security forces to reclaim affected communities and ensure the return of peace. The operation will target terrorist cells, bandits, and kidnappers that have recently extended activities into Kwara and other North-Central states.
…President Tinubu Orders Army Battalion for “Operation Savannah Shield” into Kaiama
Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq paid a condolence visit to Woro and Nuku communities of Kaiama Local Government Area where locals were killed for refusing to surrender to extremist doctrine.
The Governor, who arrived in Kaiama accompanied by service chiefs and cabinet members, disclosed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the immediate deployment of an army battalion to launch counter-offensives codenamed “Operation Savannah Shield.”
Governor AbdulRahman condemned the Tuesday attack as a cowardly act by terrorist cells frustrated by ongoing security operations across the state. He expressed deep condolences to the affected families and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting all communities.
The newly approved military deployment aims to intensify counterterrorism campaigns in the region, building on recent operations that have disrupted several kidnapping and terrorist networks. The Governor assured residents that the security forces remain focused on dismantling all threats to peace in Kwara.
…Troops Neutralize Fighters, Rescue Kidnap Victims in Sustained Offensive
The Nigerian Army’s 2 Division has launched a major security operation, “Operation Igbo Danu” (Operation Forest Flush), targeting terrorist hideouts across Kwara State. Between January 23 and 29, 2026, troops from the 22 Armoured Brigade—supported by the Office of the National Security Adviser—conducted coordinated assaults on bandit enclaves in forested areas, including Garin Dandi in Ifelodun Local Government.
Under the command of Major General Chinedu Nnebife, General Officer Commanding 2 Division, and Brigadier General Nicholas Rume of 22 Brigade, the operation resulted in the neutralization of terrorists, destruction of multiple camps, and the rescue of kidnap victims. Several suspects were also apprehended while attempting to flee.
The army reported that bandits had received early warnings from collaborators within nearby communities, allowing some to escape with gunshot wounds. Despite challenging terrain, troops maintained aggressive patrols and blocking positions, significantly degrading the insurgents’ logistics and freedom of movement.
Major General Nnebife has called on the public to continue providing credible intelligence to support ongoing operations aimed at dismantling terrorist networks within the state.
…Government Says Safety Situation Has Improved, Vigilance Maintained
Schools across Kwara State will reopen on Monday, February 2, 2026, following improvements in security conditions. The decision was announced by the State Commissioner for Education and Human Capital Development, Dr. Lawal Olohungbebe, after consultations with security agencies.
In a statement released on Sunday, the government noted that continuous security operations have significantly neutralized threats to public safety, including educational institutions. “The government deems the situation now to be a lot better than it was before. Even so, we continue to maintain vigilance,” the statement read.
Security operations remain ongoing to sustain recent gains, supported by efforts to build community resilience alongside targeted security activities. School authorities have been formally notified of the resumption and are expected to adhere to all safety guidelines issued by the state.
The reopening follows weeks of intensified security measures aimed at stabilizing affected areas and ensuring the protection of students, teachers, and school facilities.
The Kwara State Police Command has dismissed as fake and misleading a viral video alleging that women were assaulted during a protest at the Government House in Ilorin, describing the footage as digitally manipulated.
The police made this known in a statement issued on Tuesday by the state Police Public Relations Officer, SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, following public outrage over a video that surfaced on social media claiming that security operatives brutalised women protesters at the Government House on December 27, 2025.
According to the command, a forensic analysis of the video revealed that it was a composite clip created by splicing unrelated footage together to falsely portray an incident that never occurred at the Government House.
“The video currently circulating is a digitally manipulated composite. It was deliberately edited by merging scenes of violent altercations from unrelated incidents with footage from a peaceful protest to create a false narrative,” the statement read.
The police further disclosed that some of the images being circulated alongside the video were traced to separate incidents that occurred several months earlier and had no connection with any protest in Ilorin.
The command added that efforts by its investigative team to locate and interview the alleged victims, particularly the two women featured in the viral clip, had proved abortive.
“Despite public appeals, no individual or group has come forward to lodge a formal complaint regarding the alleged assault,” the statement added.
Reacting to the development, the Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Adekimi Ojo, warned against the spread of unverified information capable of inciting public disorder.
He reiterated the need for organisers of public demonstrations to always notify and liaise with security agencies ahead of time, noting that such coordination enables the police to provide adequate security, prevent infiltration by hoodlums and ensure the safety of participants and members of the public.
The police boss assured residents that the command remains committed to protecting citizens’ rights while maintaining law and order across the state.
“The Kwara State Police Command remains dedicated to safeguarding lives and property and urges members of the public to verify information before sharing it,” the statement added.
The command also cautioned against the deliberate circulation of false or misleading content capable of undermining public peace, stressing that such acts could attract legal consequences.
PUNCH Online had earlier reported that Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq directed the Kwara State Police Command to immediately carry out an investigation following widespread public outrage over the video, which surfaced online claiming that female protesters were assaulted during a demonstration at the seat of government on December 27, 2025.
The incident had earlier drawn public attention after reports emerged that women protesting over alleged socio-economic concerns were manhandled by thugs in the presence of security agents.
•Says initiative a game changer to strengthen security architecture •Deployment is immediate, respect RoE: NSA
About a thousand forest guards had their passing out parade in Kwara State on Saturday ahead of full deployment to curtail the activities of terrorists, kidnappers, and illegal miners, among others.
Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq called the initiative a game changer, which he said would leave the terrorists and kidnappers with the option of either leaving the state or paying a heavy prize.
He commended President Bola Tinubu for “thinking out of the box” to repossess Nigeria’s forest resources, expel all the bad faith actors occupying the forests, and strengthen public safety.
Governor AbdulRazaq also thanked the security forces for their commitment to protect lives, saying a synergy with the new auxiliary forces who were all drawn from local communities will strengthen the campaign to fight terrorists and kidnappers.
“Today opens a new page in our campaign against all forms of terrorism, kidnapping, and opportunist attacks on our people by bad faith actors who exploit our vast territories for evil purposes,” he said at the event in Ilorin.
The event was attended by all the security commanders in the state, cabinet members, council chairpersons, traditional rulers, and heads of federal and state agencies and tertiary institutions.
“The enlistment of armed forest guards to complement the patriotic efforts of our security forces is a game changer in this campaign. It shows very clearly that the government is committed to the mission of ridding our country of all forms of terrorism, banditry, and kidnappings,” the Governor added.
“And the message is very clear: more than ever before, the terrorists now have the option of immediately leaving our state or paying a heavy price.
“Today’s launch of the forest guards simply means that we are going on the offensive because our people deserve their peace as freeborns. We have had enough! Anyone who thinks or acts otherwise is our enemy who will not be spared.
“Distinguished forest guards, you are embarking on a national assignment to protect our people from all criminals in our forests. Working with gallant officers and personnel of the security forces, you are to go all out to flush out the terrorists, restore sanity in our forests, and keep our communities safer than they ever were.
“I commend the President of the Federal Republic for this bold policy response to the security situation in our country and the larger Sahel Region. I thank the leadership of the National Security Adviser for pulling this through. I am also confident that all the security forces will work together with the forest guards to end this menace once and for all.
“More importantly, I urge the people of Kwara State to work with the security forces and the forest guards to flush out the terrorists and make our state uninhabitable for them.
“While the forest guards are auxiliaries under the Office of the National Security Adviser and the Department of State Security, I assure you of our continuous support for this initiative just like we have done throughout your training.
“Working with the ONSA, our plan is to ensure that each local government has at least 200 forest guards who will fortify our forests and work with local vigilantes to protect lives and property.
“I congratulate all the new forest guards. I thank you for agreeing to serve our state, and I reassure you of our continuous support as you embark on this important national security assignment.
“Finally, I thank all the security forces who were involved in the rigorous training programme. You all did so well. God bless you.”
National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, for his part, said the newly trained Forest Guards will be deployed immediately to threatened communities in the pilot states, particularly around forested and ungoverned spaces.
Ribadu said the Presidential Forest Guards initiative is a joint effort between the Federal and State Governments, listing the pilot states to include Adamawa, Borno, Kwara, Kebbi, Niger, Sokoto, and Yobe.
“The mandate of the forest guards is two-fold. First, they are entrusted with guarding our national heritage and charged with protecting, preserving, and sustainably managing our forest ecosystems, watersheds, wildlife, and biodiversity,” he said.
“Second, they serve as a critical force multiplier in our national security architecture, particularly in confronting bandits, insurgents, terrorists, and other criminal elements that are exploiting the vast, ungoverned forest spaces across the country for their heinous crimes.”
Represented by the Assistant Director General for DSS, Femi Shotayo, the NSA added: “Aside from being first responders, these guards are expected to gather actionable human intelligence, support ongoing security operations, and restore state presence where it has long been absent.”
He said the deployment of the guards will be immediate along with payment of salaries and allowances.
Ribadu urged the trainees to abide by their oaths of allegiance to the Nigerian state and to respect human rights, gender rights, and protection of civilians, among other rules of engagement taught at the training.
“The oath of allegiance is not a mere formality; it is a binding pledge of loyalty to the Federal Republic of Nigeria, obedience to lawful authority, and commitment to the protection of lives, property, and the Constitution. By this act, you formally accept the sacred responsibility entrusted to you by the Nigerian state. You are henceforth bound to uphold discipline, professionalism, respect for human rights, and the highest standards of conduct in the execution of your duties,” he said.
Highlights of the event included the display of what the guards have learnt about attack and self-defence and operational capabilities to curtail banditry, kidnapping, cattle rustling, deforestation, and illegal mining.
Rafiu Ajakaye Chief Press Secretary to the Governor December 27, 2025
