Senator Mustapha urges unity to tackle Kwara’s security challenges
Stephen Olufemi Oni, Ilorin
Senator Saliu Mustapha, representing the Kwara Central Senatorial District in the National Assembly, has expressed grave concern over the recent security challenges in parts of Kwara South and Kwara North Senatorial Districts of the State.
A statement personally signed by him said: “For decades, Kwara proudly enjoyed an enviable reputation as one of the most peaceful States in the Federation. Sadly, the recent wave of banditry and kidnapping is capable of eroding that record, thereby unfortunately drawing our dear State into the wider national security concerns.
“I extend my heartfelt sympathy to fellow Kwarans and families who have fallen victim to this senseless carnage, especially those who have paid the ultimate price. I send my deepest condolences to the families of the vigilantes, forestry guards, and others who lost their lives during the recent attacks in Oke-Ode, Ifelodun Local Government Area, as well as in Edu and Patigi LGAs of our state.
“I must acknowledge the immense efforts of the Federal Government under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR; the Kwara State Government under His Excellency, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, CON; and the gallantry of our security agencies who continue to put their lives on the line to protect us all.
“This crisis is novel to Kwara, and this may partly explain why it has appeared intractable. I therefore urge the public to exercise understanding, patience and restraints while trusting in the capacity of both the Federal and State governments to overcome this menace.”
The Turaki of Ilorin Emirate, however, charged all stakeholders across every spectrum — political, traditional, communal, and religious — to recognise this as a shared challenge requiring shared responsibility, adding that if any part of the State is unsafe, then no part is truly safe.
He added: “I believe that we, the political class—whether in government or opposition—must rise above rhetoric and name-calling. This is a moment for unity, for collective action, and for prayers for divine intervention and for guidance for our leaders, whose decisions, in one way or another, affect us all as citizens.
“We do not have another State apart from Kwara. Our future, our peace, and our prosperity depend on the choices we make today.
“All hands must therefore be on deck to regain the peace and harmony Kwara State is known for.”