Governor AbdulRazaq vows to eliminate criminal hideouts after deadly Kwara State banditry attack in Oke-Ode, seeks federal aid to boost security operations

Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has declared that bandits and kidnappers will find no sanctuary within the state, following a violent assault in Oke-Ode community, Ifelodun Local Government Area, on Sunday.

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The incident, which saw local vigilantes and a traditional leader ambushed by gunmen**, left multiple people dead and has heightened fears among residents.

In a statement on Wednesday by his Chief Press Secretary, Rafiu Ajakaye, Governor AbdulRazaq confirmed that he had briefed President Bola Tinubu on the security situation and reiterated his request for additional federal deployment to flush out criminal elements, particularly in border communities.

“Kwara will not be a hiding place for criminals. We will fight insecurity with every resource at our disposal,” the governor vowed.

As part of intensified operations, the Nigerian Army Headquarters has relocated the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 2nd Division to Ilorin, Kwara State’s capital.

Governor AbdulRazaq disclosed that on Monday night, joint forces from the Army, Department of State Services (DSS), and Nigeria Police launched a military offensive around Baba Sango, a volatile area near the Kwara–Kogi border, reportedly killing about 15 armed bandits.

“The same operation continued on Tuesday. I also chaired the State Security Council meeting last night to unify both state and federal efforts across Kwara North and South,” he added.

AbdulRazaq reassured citizens that his administration is fully committed tologistical and operational support for security agencies.

“To any criminal who seeks to destabilise peace in Kwara, you may run, but you cannot escape justice,” the governor warned.

The attack in Oke-Ode — one of a series of violent incidents affecting Kwara’s rural communities — has sparked renewed calls for stronger border surveillance, modern security infrastructure, and increased collaboration between state and federal forces.

Residents in Ifelodun and neighbouring areas have reported increased tension since the attack, with many calling for the establishment of military posts and surveillance teams** along key entry points.

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As of press time, local sources say security patrols have increased in the affected areas, with checkpoints set up to monitor movement and intercept suspects.