A governorship aspirant in Kwara State, Malam Tajudeen Audu, has called on the federal government to step up efforts in addressing the growing insecurity in the Kwara North Senatorial District, where communities continue to suffer frequent attacks by armed bandits.
Audu acknowledged recent steps taken by the Kwara State Government, including the deployment of more security personnel to affected areas, but stressed that without a coordinated federal response, the situation could deteriorate further.
“While we must acknowledge the encouraging response from the Kwara State Government, particularly the deployment of additional security personnel to the affected areas, it is time for the federal authorities to step in and complement these efforts. Without coordinated intervention, there is a real risk of the violence escalating to other parts of the state,” he warned.
He also raised alarm over reports that bandits now roam freely in parts of Kwara North, moving on motorcycles and openly carrying assault rifles.
“This has led to mass displacement of villagers, many of whom have fled their homes and farmlands for fear of being attacked, kidnapped, or killed.
“Consequently, this has led to the displacement of villagers, many of whom have abandoned their homes and farmlands out of fear,” he added.
He also cited the economic consequences of the insecurity, revealing that a planned investment project intended for Patigi Local Government was recently shelved due to concerns about safety.
“The insecurity cost us a major development opportunity, an initiative that would have brought much-needed growth to the region,” he said.
Audu emphasised the strategic economic potential of Kwara North, pointing to its vast tracts of arable land suited for mechanised agriculture.
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“Only recently, Kwara State lost a vital investment opportunity that was due to be sited in Patigi Local Government, a project that came through the tireless efforts of the state government. Unfortunately, the prevailing insecurity discouraged the investors from proceeding,” he revealed.
Makaman Lafiagi stressed the strategic economic importance of Kwara North, describing it as a region richly endowed with fertile land ideal for mechanised farming, which holds great potential for both local development and foreign exchange generation.
“The continued presence of bandits in this area threatens to sabotage these opportunities and could significantly derail the economic well-being of the people and the state as a whole,” he said.
He urged enhanced collaboration among all stakeholders, including community vigilante groups, security agencies, and traditional authorities, to restore peace and stability.
“Addressing the insecurity in Kwara North requires a unified and sustained approach. All hands must be on deck to remove these threats to our people and our future,” he said.