The Senate has ordered security agencies to assess rising insecurity in Kwara South.
Lawmakers also urged stronger protection and swift relief for victims.
The Nigerian Senate has directed security agencies to carry out a comprehensive assessment of the worsening security situation in Kwara South Senatorial District following a motion of urgent national importance moved by Senator Ashiru Oyelola, representing Kwara South, during Wednesday’s plenary session.
Senator Oyelola raised alarm over the escalating violence in his district, describing it as a region under siege. He reported that several communities across Ifelodun, Isin, Ekiti, and Oke Ero Local Government Areas have come under persistent attacks from armed bandits, leading to mass displacement, numerous deaths, and widespread fear among residents. According to him, the criminal activities including kidnappings, assassinations, and village invasions have crippled local trade, destroyed livelihoods, and forced families to abandon their homes.
He stressed that despite efforts by security agencies, the wave of violence has continued to grow, with little visible improvement in the protection of lives and property. He urged the Senate to intervene by calling for stronger security presence and coordinated action between federal and local authorities to restore peace in the affected areas.
In their contributions, other lawmakers expressed concern that insecurity has become a national crisis, affecting nearly every region of the country. They noted that even with significant funding for security operations, communities remain vulnerable. The legislators called for greater accountability from security agencies and emphasized the need for community-based intelligence gathering to complement military and police efforts.
Following deliberations, the Senate resolved to summon heads of key security agencies for a briefing on measures being taken to curb the violence in Kwara South. It also directed the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to provide immediate relief to displaced residents and approved compensation for the families of vigilante members killed during the attacks.
The lawmakers concluded by observing a minute of silence in honor of those who lost their lives and reaffirmed their commitment to finding lasting solutions to the region’s insecurity.
