The Kwara State Government has issued a security alert, urging residents to stay vigilant during New Year celebrations and crossover church services. This warning follows intelligence reports of potential attacks on public infrastructure and other vulnerable targets. The government has advised citizens to limit non-essential movements and avoid large gatherings that could be targeted by criminals.
Security intelligence suggests that certain groups are planning to attack government facilities or public places as retaliation for recent setbacks against security forces. The government emphasized the need for increased vigilance, particularly during crossover services and New Year festivities, while assuring that security agencies are on high alert to protect lives and property.
Residents are encouraged to report any suspicious activities, especially unusual movements involving convoys of motorcycles. The state government is collaborating closely with security agencies to ensure peace and security throughout the festive period and has called on the public to cooperate with law enforcement.
In recent months, Kwara State has faced a resurgence of security challenges, particularly in rural areas of Kwara South and parts of Kwara North, with incidents of kidnapping, armed banditry, and attacks on worship centers. A notable attack occurred in Eruku, Ekiti Local Government Area, where bandits targeted a church, abducting 38 individuals and killing three. This incident has heightened concerns over the safety of religious gatherings, especially during late-night services and holidays.
In response to these threats, the government and security agencies have increased patrols, reassessed security measures around worship centers and border communities, and warned of criminal elements from neighboring states attempting to establish a presence in Kwara. Authorities have noted a pattern of armed groups moving in motorcycle convoys, consistent with previous kidnapping and attack operations in the state.
