Security Crisis in Kwara North District Worsens as Death Toll Surpasses 1,200
In a troubling development, prominent elders and stakeholders from the Kwara North Senatorial District have reported that since President Bola Tinubu assumed office in 2023, over 1,200 individuals have lost their lives to violence, with countless others remaining in captivity. The group, operating under the Kwara North Development Commission (KNDC), stresses the urgent need for action to address the escalating security crisis.
Political Consequences Loom if Urgent Measures are Not Taken
The group warned that unless swift and effective measures are implemented to restore security, the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) may face a significant backlash from the public and lose vital political support ahead of the upcoming 2027 general elections. Their concerns are further exacerbated by the “nearly complete breakdown” of law and order in the district, which they attribute to the federal government’s inaction.
Communities Devastated by Banditry and Terrorism
The security situation has devastated local communities across five local government areas: Barten, Kiama, Edu, Patigi, and Moro. Residents have been forced to flee, agricultural activities have come to a standstill, and economic development has been severely disrupted. Once hailed as the breadbasket of Kwara State, the region is now plagued by continuous assaults from armed groups.
Agricultural Sector Faces Severe Threats
In their statement, representatives of the group lamented, “Our people are living in fear. Entire communities have been plundered.” They emphasized the crippling impact on agriculture, which is the mainstay of the local economy. With farmers unable to access their lands safely, and merchants hesitant to enter the area due to security concerns, a significant loss of crops is inevitable.
State Government Efforts Acknowledged, Federal Intervention Urged
While the elders recognized the efforts of Kwara State Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq in addressing these issues, they firmly stated that ultimate responsibility for security lies with the federal government. “This is no longer a regional challenge,” they emphasized, calling for immediate and decisive intervention from President Tinubu, who serves as the Commander-in-Chief of the Nigerian Armed Forces.
Social Fabric at Risk Due to Ongoing Violence
The deteriorating security environment has begun to erode the region’s long-standing social and cultural traditions. Many indigenous residents, traditionally returning to their homelands during festive seasons, have chosen to stay away out of fear of violence. The group expressed concern that, for the first time, numerous children have opted not to participate in celebrations due to safety concerns, highlighting the severity of the crisis.
A Call for Urgent Action to Restore Trust and Security
The elders emphasized that unless urgent steps are taken to restore order and trust, it will become increasingly difficult for political leaders to gather support for the ruling party in future elections. “Politics cannot thrive where people are struggling simply to survive,” they noted. They directly appealed to President Tinubu to mobilize all necessary security resources to safeguard the community from both terrorist and criminal threats.
A Plea for Peace and Stability
In their appeal, they called on the President to respond promptly and effectively, stating, “What we seek is not charity, but security, justice, and the opportunity to live and work in peace.” The group underscored that restoring security in the area is vital—not only for preserving lives but also for reviving key agricultural production and economic activities, which are critical to ensuring food security for both Kwara State and Nigeria at large.
