As insecurity intensifies across Kwara State, especially in the southern region, renowned Peace Ambassador Amb. Dr. Samuel Olanrewaju Bill has urgently appealed to all tiers of government and relevant stakeholders to implement swift and effective measures to restore safety and tranquility.
In a statement released to the press in Abuja, Amb. Bill recalled that Kwara was once celebrated for its serene environment but is now confronting escalating violence, notably in Kwara South. He highlighted the surge in banditry, kidnappings, and attacks on farmlands, which have instilled widespread fear and forced many residents to flee their homes.
The Ambassador expressed deep sorrow over the recent assault in the Oke-Ode community within Ifelodun Local Government Area, where armed bandits launched a brutal attack on a Sunday, resulting in the deaths of several vigilante members and local inhabitants, with others taken hostage. Eyewitness accounts describe the assailants arriving in overwhelming numbers, heavily armed, and engaging in a fierce battle with local defenders.
Amb. Bill revealed that in recent months, over 200 lives have been lost, numerous individuals injured, and many abducted, leading to the displacement of more than 20 communities. Areas such as Isin, Ifelodun, Irepodun, Oke Ero, Ekiti, Baruten, Kaiama, and Edu have been severely affected. Many residents have sought refuge in Ilorin, the state capital, and other urban centers.
The ongoing insecurity has also devastated the local economy. “Agricultural activities have been abandoned, markets shuttered, and several communities have turned into deserted ghost towns,” the Ambassador noted.
Recognizing the severity of the crisis, Amb. Bill urged the authorities and stakeholders to adopt immediate and comprehensive strategies to counter these threats. His recommendations include bolstering security operations, fostering community involvement, and enhancing inter-agency cooperation.
He emphasized the need for improved intelligence capabilities and the deployment of additional military forces, supported by Air Force reconnaissance. Engaging local populations to build trust and encourage the sharing of vital information is crucial. Strengthening collaboration among security agencies, government officials, community leaders, and stakeholders is also essential. Furthermore, sealing off escape routes along the Niger and Kogi borders and securing vulnerable entry points must be prioritized. Training and equipping local vigilantes, hunters, and youth familiar with the terrain will enhance grassroots defense efforts.
Amb. Bill also called for the establishment of permanent military installations, particularly in Kwara South, and the use of drones and advanced surveillance technologies to monitor and preempt threats. He stressed the importance of proactive operations to disrupt criminal activities before they escalate, coupled with strong political resolve to confront terrorists and their networks. The formation of a joint security board comprising federal and state governments, traditional rulers, and security agencies was also recommended.
He underscored that the magnitude of the insecurity surpasses the capacity of the Kwara State Government alone, urging decisive intervention from the Federal Government. “Given Kwara’s strategic significance, the Federal Government must implement bold, coordinated actions,” he asserted.
Amb. Bill highlighted Kwara’s unique role as a vital link between Nigeria’s northern and southern regions, bridging the Arewa North and Yoruba South-West. “This connection must be preserved to prevent further destabilization,” he warned.
He cautioned that unchecked violence could exacerbate ethnic tensions and potentially ignite broader conflicts. “There are growing fears of orchestrated land grabs, which, if left unaddressed, could trigger widespread ethnic mobilization and unrest,” he explained.
Concern was also raised about Kwara’s expansive territory-the ninth largest in Nigeria-potentially becoming a permanent refuge for criminal elements if urgent action is not taken.
Amb. Bill pointed out the broader consequences of the crisis, particularly its threat to food security. “As a key agricultural hub, Kwara’s farming activities are being severely disrupted, endangering food supplies,” he said.
He warned that allowing bandits free rein in Kwara could embolden similar groups nationwide, especially in southern Nigeria, which shares borders with the state.
While commending the dedication of security personnel, Amb. Bill urged modernization of their tactics in line with international standards. He outlined five fundamental principles for national security: achieving dominance in air and space to monitor and respond swiftly; integrating cutting-edge technologies such as drones, AI, and autonomous systems; enhancing intelligence and special operations for precise and rapid interventions; employing cyber and electronic warfare to disrupt enemy communications and finances; and ensuring robust logistics and partnerships to sustain operations effectively.
He stressed that Kwara stands at a critical juncture. “The reality on the ground is graver than reported. Any delay risks more lives and could destabilize not only Nigeria but the entire West African region,” he warned.
In closing, Amb. Bill called for united efforts to rebuild public trust. “Restoring Kwara’s reputation as a beacon of peace and prosperity requires collaboration among citizens, government, and security agencies to tackle the root causes of insecurity and implement lasting solutions,” he concluded.
“Kwara’s salvation is within reach. Through courage, strategic planning, and collective resolve, peace can be restored, and confidence renewed. Together, we can ensure our state and nation remain safe havens where justice, harmony, and growth flourish,” he affirmed.
