Category: Security

…Governor mourns forest guards, civilians lost in Sunday incident as Army HQ orders GOC relocation to Kwara

Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has called for increased security deployments across the state following deadly attacks in Oke Ode and surrounding areas of Ifelodun Local Government.

In a statement on Sunday, the Governor expressed deep sorrow over the deaths of forest guards and residents who fell victim to the early morning assault. He praised the courage of the guards and local hunters who resisted the assailants, saying their sacrifice would never be forgotten.

“My heartfelt condolences go to the families. No word can adequately capture the depth of my sadness and nothing can compensate the bereaved families over these incidents, in spite of our efforts and the investments in enlisting and training the forest guards to bolster the conventional forces,” he said.

The Governor acknowledged the concerns of citizens and emphasised that more military presence was needed to fully dislodge criminal elements in parts of Kwara South and Kwara North.

“While we appreciate the efforts and unquantifiable sacrifices of the security forces as well as the successes so far, we definitely need to do a lot more until we are completely out of the wood,” he added.

Governor AbdulRazaq also appealed to residents to remain calm and not turn on one another, noting that unity and vigilance were vital in confronting insecurity.

He commended the forest guards and hunters for their bravery, acknowledging that although five of their members were lost, they were able to neutralise several of the attackers.

Meanwhile, the Nigerian Army Headquarters has directed the General Officer Commanding (GOC), 2 Division, Ibadan, to immediately relocate to Kwara State to strengthen coordination and boost military response to the incident.

… Army extends Operation Fansan Yamma to Kwara as Governor urges calm, vows stronger logistics support

Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has praised the courage of vigilante members in Isin Local Government whose resistance led to the neutralisation of several armed criminals during an encounter in Eleyin community.

In a statement issued in Ilorin on Saturday, the Governor described the action as a bold assertion of the people’s right to live without fear. He expressed condolences to the family of Mr. Saheed Adeshina, a vigilante member who died from injuries sustained in the clash, approving ₦10 million financial support for his family.

“May God repose his soul and comfort his loved ones at this difficult time. His bravery and sacrifice will not be forgotten,” the Governor said.

AbdulRazaq assured that the government will replace motorcycles lost during the operation and intensify logistic support for both security agencies and local vigilantes. He urged residents to remain calm and avoid violent protests, stressing that such actions could undermine ongoing security efforts.

“The reported mass neutralisation of the criminals sends a clear message that Kwarans will not accept provocation or intimidation. Together with the security forces, our communities will be rid of criminal elements,” the Governor added.

He also announced that the Nigerian Army has extended Operation Fansan Yamma to Kwara, reinforcing the state’s security architecture in collaboration with local vigilantes.

The Governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to ensuring safety across the state, promising continuous support for community-based security efforts alongside formal security agencies.

…Security commanders report arrests, arms seizures as state steps up public safety drive

Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq on Monday chaired a marathon security council meeting in Ilorin to review ongoing operations aimed at strengthening public safety across the state.

The meeting was attended by heads of security agencies, including the police, Army, Navy, Air Force, Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Immigration Service, and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA). Senior government officials such as the Secretary to the State Government, Attorney General, Special Adviser on Security, and Senior Special Assistant on Security also participated.

Briefings covered recent operations across the state, with security chiefs reporting multiple arrests, prosecutions, and the interception of arms from criminal elements.

Governor AbdulRazaq commended the security forces for their dedication and sacrifice, assuring them of the government’s continued support.

“Our security agencies are putting in everything to keep our people safe. They deserve every support that they get,” the Governor said, while urging residents to remain vigilant and provide actionable intelligence to aid the work of security operatives.

The Governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to working with security agencies and the Office of the National Security Adviser to ensure Kwara remains secure and peaceful.

…Governor commiserates with victims’ families, pledges support through KWASSIP

Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq at the weekend visited Babanla, Oke-Ode and other communities in Ifelodun Local Government Area to reassure residents of his administration’s commitment to strengthening security and protecting livelihoods.

The Governor, accompanied by security chiefs including the Commander of the 22 Armoured Brigade, Brigadier General Ezra Barkins, and the State Commissioner of Police, Adekimi Ojo, commiserated with families affected by the recent attacks and pledged that government would prevent further breaches. He also directed the Kwara State Social Investment Programme (KWASSIP) to provide immediate support to those affected.

“We are here in Babanla today to commiserate with you over the recent incident. We reassure you and other communities that we will ensure this does not happen again. It is a sad incident which we are working hard to curtail,” AbdulRazaq said.

The Governor explained that the influx of criminal elements into the area was a spillover from increased military pressure in other parts of the country, but assured residents that security forces are determined to flush them out.

“You can see that the security commanders are also here, and you have witnessed the return of normalcy in the past week. We will make sure everything is in order and you live in peace,” he added.

The Governor was received in Babanla by the Oba of Babanla, Oba Aliyu Adegboyega Yusuf Arojojoye II, who commended the administration’s swift intervention and the federal government’s support in restoring calm.

“Your visit today is a great relief for our people. We commend your actions to restore peace. The attack led to the loss of nine motorcycles, food items, and phones, but with your assurances, our people can now feel safer,” the monarch said.

Also on the Governor’s entourage were the Senior Special Assistant on Security, Muyideen Aliyu, and Chairman of Ifelodun Local Government, Hon. Femi Yusuf.

…Abdulrazaq Urges Vigilance as Security Operations Target Gunmen in Northern Kwara

Kwara State Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq has announced intensified efforts to curb criminal activities in the state’s hinterlands, particularly in the northern district, where recent gunmen attacks have caused unrest. In a statement released on Wednesday by his Chief Press Secretary, Rafiu Ajakaiye, the governor called on residents to stay vigilant and report suspicious activities to security forces and state authorities.

Abdulrazaq praised President Bola Tinubu and Nigeria’s security agencies for their recent success in apprehending top leaders of the Ansaru terrorist group, describing the arrests as a testament to the administration’s commitment to combating terrorism. He highlighted the role of intelligence-driven operations in achieving these arrests, calling them a “significant victory for the nation.”

“We commend the President, the National Security Adviser, and the leadership of the Nigerian Armed Forces, including the army, air force, navy, and police, for their remarkable efforts,” Abdulrazaq said. “These achievements strengthen our resolve to support national security initiatives on all fronts.”

The governor expressed optimism that the clampdown on terrorist leaders would enhance ongoing efforts to eliminate criminality across Nigeria. He reassured residents that the state government is working closely with security agencies to ensure the safety of lives and properties. “No effort is being spared to protect our communities,” he emphasized.

Abdulrazaq urged citizens to remain calm but alert, noting that the lack of public details about specific security operations does not indicate inaction. “Significant work is being done behind the scenes, including intelligence gathering, arrests, and attack prevention,” he explained. To bolster security, additional operatives, including forest guards, are being deployed to vulnerable areas.

The governor also directed the Kwara State Social Investment Programme (KWASSIP) to assess the needs of communities affected by recent incidents, ensuring support is provided to local leaders and residents.

Abdulrazaq concluded by reaffirming his administration’s commitment to eliminating threats and maintaining peace in Kwara. “We are intensifying efforts to stop these cowardly criminal acts and ensure the safety of our people,” he said.

…Governor reassures residents, directs KWASSIP to support affected persons

Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has applauded President Bola Tinubu and Nigeria’s security agencies for the arrest of top leaders of terrorist groups, describing the breakthrough as a major boost to the nation’s counterterrorism efforts.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Governor said the capture of Mahmud Muhammad Usman, leader of Ansaru, and his deputy Mahmud al-Nigeri (popularly called Malam Mahmuda), demonstrates the effectiveness of intelligence-led operations under the present administration. “These arrests are a big win for the country,” AbdulRazaq said. “We commend the President, the National Security Adviser, and the leadership of the Armed Forces, Police, and other agencies for this feat. On our part, we will continue to support their efforts on all fronts.”

The Governor reassured residents of Kwara that his administration is working closely with security operatives to neutralize threats and protect lives and property. He stressed that the absence of public details about ongoing operations should not be mistaken for inaction.
“A lot is being done behind the scenes in collaboration with security agencies, leading to intelligence gathering, arrests, and prevention of planned attacks,” he said. “Our people must remain alert but calm, and report any suspicious activities promptly.”

AbdulRazaq disclosed that more operatives, including forest guards, are being deployed to safeguard rural areas. He also directed the Kwara State Social Investment Programme (KWASSIP) to immediately take inventory of affected persons for support, working with community leaders to ensure accountability.
The Governor further urged residents to remain vigilant, cooperative, and confident in the renewed efforts to curb insecurity across the state and beyond.

… Governor reaffirms commitment to stronger security measures across the state

Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq on Saturday held a strategic security meeting with senior officers of the army, police, and other security agencies in Kwara South.

The meeting followed reviewed security reports from various stakeholders, including the outcome of a recent routine gathering of Kwara South Leaders convened by Engr. Dr. Johnson Adewumi. Present were Irepodun Local Government Chairman, Hon. Abdulazeez Yakub; Commissioner for Communications, Hon. Bolanle Olukoju; Prince Olanrewaju Shuaib (SOFAB); and top security officers.

The Governor commended the Nigerian Army, police, local vigilantes, and community leaders for their collaboration, which he said has been vital in maintaining peace and safety across the state.

He directed security agencies to maintain a lockdown in areas showing signs of potential threats, stressing the importance of keeping Kwara inhospitable to criminal elements. He also assured residents that the state government is working closely with the Office of the National Security Adviser to strengthen security measures.

Governor AbdulRazaq urged residents to remain calm and support ongoing operations by security forces, assuring them that all necessary steps are being taken to safeguard lives and property.

…Security Forces Neutralize Threats and Rescue Victims in Major Operation

#KwaraRising

A robust security campaign in Kwara State has restored calm to Edu and Patigi Local Government Areas, with the capture of a key criminal figure, Tambaya, and several of his associates. The operation, targeting lawbreakers responsible for recent disturbances, has significantly reduced threats in the region.

Authorities confirmed that over 15 individuals, including Tambaya, a central figure in a violent assault on security personnel and local vigilantes in Gada, Lafiagi, were detained during the crackdown. In one confrontation, Tambaya and eight others were apprehended, while several members of his gang were neutralized during exchanges with security forces. The operation also led to the rescue of two kidnapped individuals and the recovery of N11 million, believed to be proceeds from criminal activities.

The initiative, driven by the Kwara State government in collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser, state security leaders, and local vigilante groups, underscores a determined effort to dismantle criminal networks. The successful raids have bolstered safety and stability, allowing residents to resume normal activities with renewed confidence.

… Joint Task Force Moves Detainees to Abuja for Interrogation

Kwara State has launched a major security offensive across border communities, resulting in the arrest of over 20 suspects linked to arms trafficking and criminal networks. The operation, coordinated with the Office of the National Security Adviser, involves nearly 400 special operatives focusing on Ifelodun, Edu, and Patigi Local Government Areas.

Security sources confirmed that ten high-value detainees have been transferred to Abuja along with recovered ammunition, while the operation has already secured the release of several kidnap victims in Babanla and surrounding areas. The crackdown implements Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s recent pledge to eliminate criminal hideouts in state forests.

Authorities have established cross-border coordination with Kogi and Niger states to prevent suspect movement. “Eruku axis is on complete lockdown, and all exit routes are being monitored,” revealed a government official involved in the operation.

Residents are urged to report suspicious activities via emergency security lines as operations expand to other identified hotspots. The measures follow increasing security breaches in Kwara’s northern agricultural communities.

… AbdulRazaq meets top military commanders in latest push to fortify Kwara against criminal elements

#KwaraRising

Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq convened a high-level security meeting with senior Nigerian Army officers on Friday as part of ongoing efforts to bolster safety across the state. The closed-door session at Ahmadu Bello House in Ilorin brought together Brigadier General Daniel Dieke and three other top military commanders to review security operations.

This marks the governor’s second strategic engagement with security chiefs in three months, following his April meeting with Chief of Army Staff Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede. The discussions focused on enhancing inter-agency coordination and maintaining Kwara’s status as a “hostile environment for non-state actors,” according to a government statement.

The Nigerian Army has acknowledged the governor’s consistent support, including recent donations of operational vehicles and motorcycles to the 22 Armoured Brigade. Security sources indicate the latest talks prioritized intelligence-sharing mechanisms and rapid response strategies for Kwara’s border communities.

“Kwara remains committed to proactive security investments that protect lives and livelihoods,” Governor AbdulRazaq stated after the meeting. The administration’s #SaferKwara initiative has reportedly reduced criminal incidents by 37% since 2023 through strengthened community policing and technology-aided surveillance.

Military representatives reaffirmed their commitment to collaborate with civil authorities, particularly in monitoring flashpoint areas along Kwara’s northern and southern boundaries. The meeting concluded with plans for joint military-civilian patrols ahead of the upcoming farming season.