Social Security Group Challenges Insecurity Claims in Kwara South
The Joint Security Watch Kwara South, a social security organization, has dismissed assertions that insecurity has markedly diminished the population and electoral significance of the region ahead of the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship election in Kwara State.
Misleading Narratives About Banditry and Kidnappings
According to the group, reports indicating that banditry and kidnappings have rendered the area deserted are misleading and aimed at politically undermining the region. The group’s coordinator, Mr. Olaitan Oyin-Zubairu, emphasized that criminal activities reported in parts of Kwara State are not exclusive to Kwara South and should not be used to stereotype the residents.
Origin of Criminal Activities
“Banditry and kidnapping in Kwara are predominantly perpetrated through unmanaged forests and unsecured border points,” Oyin-Zubairu stated. He clarified that these criminal acts are not inherent to the people of Kwara South. Most incidents in recent years have transpired in remote communities or along poorly protected routes, highlighting the need for improved security measures in those areas.
Improvements in Security Measures
Oyin-Zubairu noted that the situation has significantly improved, thanks to coordinated responses from security agencies and local vigilante groups. Many residents evacuated from affected areas are beginning to return to their farms as a result of enhanced surveillance and joint security operations.
Electoral Relevance Remains Strong
The group also rejected claims that insecurity has diluted the electoral value of Kwara South within the APC. Voting records from recent elections indicate that the district continues to be one of the party’s strongest strongholds in the state. Oyin-Zubairu pointed out that the APC performed better in Kwara South during the 2019 and 2023 elections compared to other senatorial districts, notably Kwara Central.
Strengthening Community Safety Initiatives
In an ongoing effort to mitigate criminal activities, the group has enhanced surveillance, information-sharing networks, and early warning systems across local government areas, including Irepodun, Ekiti, Oke-Ero, Isin, and Ofa. Various security entities, such as the police and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC), alongside local vigilante groups, are actively involved in these initiatives.
Call for Responsible Information Sharing
Oyin-Zubairu highlighted the importance of community safety, asserting, “Kwara South is committed to securing land, protecting its people, and restoring normalcy in economic activities.” He urged the public and political figures to refrain from spreading unverified information that could exacerbate fear and tension within the state.
National Debate on Rural Insecurity
The recent incidents of insecurity in Kwara South have reignited a national conversation about the implications of violence and economic disruption in rural communities. Local leaders have advocated for the temporary closure of the cattle market, citing its connections to criminal networks and logistical support for banditry. This plea follows an earlier decision by the municipality to close the market in 2025, which was eventually overturned after discussions with traditional rulers. Reports indicate that disturbances, displacement of residents, and interruptions to agricultural activities continue to affect parts of Ifelodun, Ekiti, Oke-Ero, Isin, and Irepodun local government areas.
