South-West Tightens Borders, Warns Bandits After Deadly Kwara Attack

Following the deadly armed attack in Kwara State that left six people dead at a motor park, South-West state governments and security agencies have stepped up border security to prevent similar violence in their territories. The governments of Oyo, Ekiti, Ondo, and Osun, alongside the Amotekun Corps, have deployed operatives to strategic locations, especially in boundary communities, to stop suspected bandits from infiltrating the region.

In Oyo State, which shares a northern border with Kwara, Commissioner for Information and Orientation Prince Dotun Oyelade said the administration has taken proactive steps, working closely with the Army, Air Force, police, and Amotekun. He highlighted that Oyo’s Amotekun is the most fortified in the South-West with 181 vehicles, 450 motorcycles, and over 2,500 personnel. The state has also approved the procurement of two surveillance aircraft to enhance monitoring and response capabilities.

Ekiti State has reinforced security at border posts with Kwara and Kogi, deploying police, army, Amotekun, agro-marshals, and anti-grazing units. Special Adviser to the Governor on Security Matters, Brigadier-General Ebenezer Ogundana (retd), said the government is monitoring developments in Kwara and has instructed local government chairmen in border communities to be on high alert. He assured residents that security forces are prepared to repel any incursions.

In Ondo State, Amotekun Commander Chief Adetunji Adeleye said the corps is on “red alert” and has intensified border patrols, joint operations with other agencies, and grassroots intelligence gathering. He disclosed that over 300 suspects linked to serious crimes have been arrested recently, and 1,200 operatives have been deployed statewide to block bandit movements. He also urged residents to avoid sharing sensitive security information on social media.

The Osun State Police Command said its officers are stationed at the state’s borders to safeguard residents. Police spokesperson Mr Zachariah Ojelabi Abiodun assured the public of continued vigilance and encouraged citizens to report any suspicious individuals or activities promptly.

Security agencies across the South-West have made it clear that the region is on high alert, warning criminal elements that there will be no safe haven for them.