Kwara South Leaders Reaffirm Support For Lawful Security Initiatives
Stephen Olufemi Oni, Ilorin
The Joint Leadership of the three constituent blocs of the Kwara South Senatorial District, comprising Igbomina, Ibolo and Ekiti, has reaffirmed its unwaivering commitment to the security of lives and property across the region, stressing that the safety of of the people of the region is non-negotiable.
A statement by the President of the Igbomina Bloc, Sir Bisi Fakayode; President of the Ibolo Bloc, Engr. Bashiru Lawal; and President of the Ekiti Bloc, Prof. J. S. Omotosho, condemned what it described as a deliberate campaign of misinformation and needless controversy aimed at frustrating genuine and lawful efforts to tackle insecurity in Kwara South.
The leadership expressed concern that while many communities continue to grapple with banditry, kidnapping, killings and displacement, some individuals have chosen to spread misleading narratives instead of supporting initiatives that complement the efforts of government and constitutionally recognised security agencies.
The statement also dismissed claims suggesting that the Executive Governor of Kwara State, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, CON, opposed the recent visit of Chief Sunday Adeyemo (Sunday Igboho) to the state, describing such reports as false and misleading. It urged members of the public to disregard unverified information and rely only on official communications, noting that Governor AbdulRazaq has consistently demonstrated his commitment to improving security through lawful and collaborative measures.
According to the leadership, insecurity has continued to affect several communities across Ifelodun, Irepodun, Isin, Oke-Ero and Ekiti Local Government Areas since late 2021, resulting in loss of lives, displacement of residents, disruption of farming activities and severe economic hardship. The breakdown remains alarming, Ifelodun Local Government Area has 89 affected communities; Irepodun has 4, Isin has 7, Oke-Ero has 1, while Ekiti Local Government Area has 9 affected communities.
While reaffirming the constitutional right of communities to advocate lawful measures that enhance security, the leadership emphasized that every legitimate partnership capable of restoring peace and enabling displaced residents to return to their homes should be encouraged rather than politicised.
The Joint Leadership therefore called on traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth organisations, community associations and all sons and daughters of Igbomina, Ibolo and Ekiti to remain united and resolute in the collective pursuit of a peaceful and secure Kwara South.
It reiterated its commitment to supporting every lawful initiative that complements the efforts of government and security agencies, maintaining that only unity, collaboration and responsible leadership can deliver lasting peace and sustainable development across the region.
