Relief For Kwara Residents As Tinubu Approves New Army Battalion Amid Deadly Attacks

The new military formation will be sited in Omu Aran, the headquarters of Irepodun Local Government Area, and is expected to enhance troop deployment and improve security operations in communities facing persistent attacks by suspected bandits.

Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq announced the development in a statement issued on Tuesday by his Deputy Chief Press Secretary, Mashood Agboola.

According to the governor, the approval underscores the Federal Government’s determination to tackle the growing security challenges confronting the state.

AbdulRazaq expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for approving the new battalion, noting that it would significantly strengthen efforts to combat terrorism and kidnapping across Kwara.

He said, “On behalf of the government and people of Kwara State, I sincerely thank Mr President for once again fulfilling his promise to our state. We are confident that the new battalion will greatly reinforce ongoing counterterrorism and anti-kidnapping operations across different parts of the state.”

The governor also commended the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, for his swift response in facilitating the request for increased military presence in the state.

He stated, “I also appreciate the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, for the prompt attention given to our request for additional military personnel to strengthen the Army’s presence in Kwara.”

AbdulRazaq further acknowledged the support of the Office of the National Security Adviser and other security agencies for their collaborative efforts in tackling violent crimes across the state.

According to him, security agencies have continued to carry out coordinated operations aimed at dismantling criminal networks, rescuing kidnapped victims and flushing out armed groups hiding in forested areas.

He added, “Of particular importance are the ongoing discreet, multi-agency operations focused on ending kidnappings, rescuing victims and clearing criminal elements from our forests.”

The governor expressed optimism that the increased military presence would improve the capacity of security agencies to respond swiftly to threats while restoring confidence among residents of affected communities.

The approval comes amid growing concerns over worsening insecurity in parts of Kwara State, particularly Babanla in Ifelodun Local Government Area, where residents have repeatedly complained about the activities of suspected bandits.

Community members have alleged that armed criminals continue to operate in the area despite previous security operations, with some claiming they were discouraged by influential figures from speaking publicly about the recurring attacks.

Tensions escalated further on Monday after gunmen reportedly killed one resident and abducted another, intensifying fears that Babanla has become a major base for criminal gangs operating across the Igbomina axis.