Residents of Kwara South Senatorial District in Kwara State have staged a protest over what they describe as an escalating wave of insecurity that has severely affected communities across the region.
Under the banner of the Kwara South Development Forum, the demonstrators raised concerns about persistent attacks allegedly carried out by armed groups, leading to killings, abductions, and widespread displacement of residents in several communities.
The protesters called on President Bola Tinubu and Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq to take urgent and coordinated action to restore peace and strengthen security across affected areas.
Speaking during the protest, the forum’s convener, Obashola Ayomide Ridwan, said residents have been forced to live in fear as schools remain shut and families continue to suffer repeated kidnappings and attacks.
He emphasized the need for immediate reinforcement of local security structures, including vigilante groups, which he said have been overwhelmed by the scale of violence.
Other protesters shared harrowing accounts of how communities in areas such as Ifelodun Local Government Area and neighbouring districts have been deserted due to frequent attacks. Many residents reportedly fled their homes after repeated incidents of abduction and extortion.
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Some victims also recounted paying large sums in ransom to secure the release of kidnapped relatives, while others lamented the complete breakdown of normal economic and social activities in their communities.
According to community members, targeted attacks on vigilante leaders have further weakened local defence efforts, leaving rural settlements increasingly vulnerable.
They also alleged that criminal groups are exploiting forested areas and illegal mining sites as operational bases.
The protesters warned that without swift intervention such as increased deployment of security personnel, improved intelligence operations, and strengthened local security collaboration the region risks deeper humanitarian and economic consequences.
They also appealed to traditional rulers, state authorities, and federal agencies to act decisively to prevent further deterioration of the security situation across Kwara South.
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