Bandits tighten grip on nine Kwara LGAs, demand food, drinks as ransom
The security situation in Kwara State is, of recent, characterized by worsening insecurity, with bandits reportedly controlling nine out of sixteen local government areas and demanding food and drinks as ransom, according to reports.
This alarming development was highlighted by Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, who described the situation as a national emergency.
The affected local government areas in Kwara State include Baruten, Edu, Ekiti, Ifelodun, Isin, Kaiama, Oke-Ero, Patigi, and Irepodun.
Beyond abducting residents, these bandit groups have escalated their demands to include food and drinks as ransom, indicating a shift in their operational tactics and a deeper entrenchment in these communities. This situation has led to residents fleeing their homes and community leaders expressing significant fear and anger.
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Despite these challenges, the Nigerian military, through the Defence Headquarters (DHQ), reported significant gains in combating terrorism and banditry across the country in September 2025.
Operations under “Enduring Peace” and “Whirl Stroke” were carried out in several states, including Kogi, Plateau, Kaduna, Benue, Taraba, Nasarawa, and the FCT. During these operations, troops responded to distress calls, conducted offensive operations, arrested suspects, rescued kidnapped victims, and seized arms and ammunition.
Specifically, in Kogi State, which borders Kwara, operations were conducted in Kabba Bunu and Omala LGAs, leading to the arrest of six suspects, rescue of two hostages, and recovery of weapons. While the DHQ report details successes in various regions, it does not specifically address the reported control of nine LGAs by bandits in Kwara State or the specific demands for food and drinks as ransom in that area.
The concerns raised by Peter Obi underscore a critical and ongoing security challenge in Nigeria’s North Central region, where the spread of bandit attacks is seen as a sign of a collapsed security system. He emphasized that leadership must prioritize the protection of lives and property as a sacred responsibility, urging the government to take decisive action to restore peace and stability.