By Oluwakemi Kindness
The Kwara State Government has vowed to strengthen its security architecture following a deadly bandit attack in Nuku community, Kaiama Local Government Area, where five forest guards were killed.
Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq described the slain guards as “brave patriots” who died defending their communities during the late-night assault on a security outpost.
In a statement issued Friday by his Special Adviser on Media, Bashir Adigun, the governor says he received news of the attack “with a heavy heart,” noting that the victims paid the ultimate price while confronting armed assailants.
“I commend the efforts of security agencies in this theatre and urge them to do more,” AbdulRazaq said, stressing that the incident highlights the persistent threat posed by bandits to rural communities.
He extended condolences to the families of the victims, adding:
“Nothing can truly compensate for their sacrifice. They will forever remain our heroes.”
Fresh Security Measures
In response, the governor announced the formation of a Kwara State Security Strategy Committee to bolster the state’s response to insecurity.
The committee, made up of retired senior military and security officers of Kwara origin, will be chaired by retired Maj.-Gen. G.A. Wahab. Other members include:
* Maj.-Gen. Yemi Abidoye
* Maj.-Gen. Abubakar Ndalolo
* Rear Adm. Aliyu Lawal
* Air Cdre. A.S.A. Buhari
* AIG Aderemi Opadokun
* Lt. Col. W.A. Lawal
The Permanent Secretary (General Services), Shuaib Abdulganiyu, will serve as secretary.
Governor AbdulRazaq is expected to meet with the committee for its inaugural session to map out strategies to curb insecurity.
Attack Details
Residents said suspected bandits stormed Nuku around 3:00 a.m., firing sporadically before killing the forest guards.
The attackers, reportedly in large numbers, also:
* Burnt patrol vehicles
* Set motorcycles ablaze
* Destroyed parts of the security outpost
The latest violence has heightened fear among residents, coming barely two months after a similar deadly attack on Woro and neighbouring Nuku communities.
Growing Concern
The incident underscores rising insecurity in parts of Kwara, particularly rural areas where forest guards serve as a critical first line of defence.
The state government has reiterated its commitment to:
* Support families of the fallen guards
* Strengthen local security structures
* Work with federal security agencies to tackle banditry
Authorities say further measures will be announced following the committee’s deliberations
