Tinubu Deploys Full Army Brigade to Kwara as Kidnapping, Banditry Escalate
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the deployment of a full army brigade to Kwara State as part of renewed efforts to combat the alarming rise in kidnapping and banditry across the state.
The large-scale military operation, according to government sources, will focus on flushing out criminal elements operating in Kwara South and Kwara North, particularly in forest areas that have become notorious hideouts for kidnappers.
According to the Kwara State Government, heavy military equipment and personnel have already begun moving through Oke-Ode and Babanla communities in Ifelodun Local Government Area, with the operation extending to Edu and Patigi LGAs regions that have witnessed repeated attacks and abductions in recent months.
Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, who confirmed the development in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Rafiu Ajakaye, on Wednesday, expressed deep appreciation to President Tinubu and the military hierarchy for the decisive intervention.
“We will not spare any resources in support of the military, DSS, police, and other security agencies as they work to strengthen the security of lives and properties,” the governor said.
“We are upbeat that this operation, as part of Operation Fasan Yanma, will eliminate all forms of threats in affected areas in Kwara South and Kwara North. I thank the president and the security agencies for the efforts so far. We just need to double our efforts to save the people.”
Governor AbdulRazaq revealed that his government had earlier briefed President Tinubu on the worsening security situation during the president’s recent visit to Jos, stressing that the federal response was both timely and reassuring.
The governor also commended the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), the Chief of Army Staff, and the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 2nd Division for their coordinated roles in the renewed offensive against criminal gangs.
“We are confident that the Brigadier General A.A. Babatunde-led army brigade will succeed in this important task and clear the entire areas,” he added.
The deployment marks one of the most significant military interventions in Kwara in recent years and signals a renewed determination by the Tinubu administration to restore peace and security across volatile parts of the country.