The Kwara State House of Assembly has expressed concern over the deteriorating security situation in the state, warning that terrorists, bandits, and kidnappers are now operating with impunity across several local government areas.
During Tuesday’s plenary session presided over by Speaker, Yakubu Danladi, the Assembly called on Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq to immediately direct the State Security Council to review and strengthen the state’s security architecture, amid growing reports of violent attacks and abductions in Baruten, Kaima, and Oke-Ero local government areas.
Leading the motion under Order VII, Rule 40 of the House Rules, Magaji Oba Abdulkadir (Ilorin Central) lamented that Kwara, once known as the “State of Harmony,” is now plagued by criminality that threatens lives, displaces families, and destroys livelihoods.
“Kwara has long been an epitome of peace, unity and coexistence among its diverse ethnic, cultural and religious groups,” Hon. Magaji said.
“It is heartbreaking that terrorists, bandits, and kidnappers are now freely tormenting our fellow Kwarans. This is no longer just a security challenge — it’s a humanitarian and developmental crisis.”
The lawmaker specifically cited recent kidnappings, including the abduction of the Director of Personnel Management and the Director of Legal Services in Oke-Ero Local Government Area.
He warned that such incidents could escalate further and jeopardize the peace and stability that Kwara has historically enjoyed.
“Unless these threats are addressed urgently and comprehensively, we risk losing the very essence of what makes our state safe and habitable,” Magaji stressed.
The Assembly urged Governor AbdulRazaq to intensify efforts by directing heads of security agencies to increase personnel and logistical support to vulnerable areas.
Lawmakers also requested the establishment of a Victim Support Fund through the Office of the Secretary to the State Government to aid families affected by violence and rebuild ravaged communities.
Despite the mounting concerns, Hon. Magaji acknowledged the governor’s previous interventions.
“Governor AbdulRazaq has demonstrated remarkable leadership through strategic collaborations and on-ground responses,” he said, referencing the governor’s visit to affected areas and the donation of 150 motorcycles to enhance local security patrols.
“However,” he added, “these times call for proactive and deliberate actions beyond symbolic gestures. We must restore confidence, reclaim our land, and ensure our communities are no longer at the mercy of terror and uncertainty.”
