Residents of Kwara South took to the streets on Friday to protest growing insecurity in the region, expressing fear and frustration over rising cases of killings, kidnappings, and forced displacement in their communities.
The demonstration was organised under the Kwara South Development Forum, which said the security situation in the area has worsened in recent times, with armed groups reportedly carrying out repeated attacks on several communities. The group also claimed that local security efforts, especially vigilante teams, are becoming overwhelmed.
Speaking during the protest, the convener of the forum, Obashola Ayomide Ridwan, said the people had no choice but to speak out due to the worsening conditions.
He said many families have lost loved ones, while others have been abducted. According to him, several schools in the area have also been shut down because of safety concerns.
He called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq to urgently step in by strengthening security operations and supporting local protection efforts.
Other residents who joined the protest shared similar concerns, saying repeated attacks have forced many people to abandon their homes and villages.
A resident, Adebisi Jimoh, said communities such as Babanla and nearby areas have been heavily affected, with many families fleeing due to constant threats.
He explained that most of the settlements are now empty as residents escape ongoing violence.
Another protester, Sodiq Amidu, alleged that kidnappers often demand large ransom payments before releasing victims, while some families have suffered tragic losses when payments could not be made.
Residents also said the insecurity has disrupted daily life, leading to the closure of schools, collapse of local businesses, and abandonment of farmlands.
Reports show that local government areas such as Ifelodun, Ekiti, Oke-Ero, and Irepodun have recorded several incidents of abductions and violent attacks in recent weeks.
The protesters appealed to traditional rulers, government authorities, and security agencies to work together to address the crisis, warning that failure to act quickly could worsen the humanitarian situation in the region.
They also called for more security personnel in affected areas, better intelligence gathering, and stronger support for community vigilante groups to help restore peace and safety.