The Senate has called on the federal government to establish a permanent military base in Kwara South as a strategic response to the worsening security situation in the region.
This appeal followed a motion of urgent national importance presented by Senator Ashiru Oyelola, the representative for Kwara South, during Wednesday’s plenary session.
Senator Oyelola drew attention to the alarming rise in banditry, kidnappings, and violent assaults within the Ifelodun local government area, which has led to widespread displacement of residents.
He reported a recent ambush by armed bandits in the Oke-Ode community that tragically claimed the lives of at least 12 forest guards and local vigilantes.
Moreover, numerous traditional rulers and community leaders have been assassinated in various communities such as Babanla, Sagbe, Oro Ago, Ganmu-Alheri, and other parts of Ifelodun, Isin, Ekiti, and Oke Ero LGAs.
According to the senator, over the last twelve months, more than 140 people have been kidnapped and over 70 killed throughout Kwara South, with 25 communities deserted due to relentless attacks.
He attributed these violent incidents to foreign militant groups working in tandem with local collaborators, severely disrupting farming, education, and trade, thereby exacerbating the region’s economic decline.
“The responses from the federal government and security agencies have been inconsistent, inadequate, and largely reactive, enabling criminal gangs to control vast ungoverned territories,” Oyelola emphasized.
In his capacity as the Senate deputy majority leader, he urged the deployment of additional military forces and specialized units to clear the forested zones and restore security to the affected communities.
Following extensive deliberations, the Senate approved the motion, directing the Federal Government to swiftly establish a permanent military facility in Kwara South, particularly within the forested areas of Ifelodun LGA, to serve as a rapid response hub.
The Senate also instructed the Chief of Defence Staff and the Inspector-General of Police to reinforce troop presence and deploy elite units to dismantle bandit camps and reestablish law and order.
Additionally, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) was tasked with providing humanitarian assistance to displaced persons and offering compensation to the families of fallen forest guards and vigilantes.
Senator Sunday Karimi from Kogi West, who backed the motion, highlighted that bandits have overrun several communities, forcing residents to flee for safety.
“Our people have endured daily attacks for the past six months. Some individuals are exploiting this chaos for personal gain. Immediate intervention is crucial to end this suffering,” Karimi stated.
Senator Adams Oshiomhole of Edo North underscored that security threats in one area have nationwide implications.
“An attack on one community is an attack on all. These criminals are advancing southward and have now infiltrated Edo North,” Oshiomhole warned.
“Every kidnapping near military posts undermines public confidence. The armed forces must reassess their tactics and intensify their efforts.”
Senator Ekong Samson from Akwa Ibom South called for a collective approach to tackling the security crisis.
“We commend the bravery of our military personnel, but security is a shared responsibility. Strengthening community-based structures is essential to defeating these criminals,” he remarked.
Senator Saliu Mustapha of Kwara Central cautioned against politicizing the security challenges.
“We must refrain from politicizing this issue. Security agencies and the presidency are committed; our priority should be practical solutions,” he advised.
Senator Sadiq Umar from Kwara North noted that the violence is spilling over from neighboring border areas.
“As lawmakers, our most effective tool is oversight. We must intensify our focus on these issues to achieve lasting peace,” Umar concluded.
The Senate further mandated its committees on defence, police affairs, and national security to conduct on-site evaluations of the affected regions and submit comprehensive reports within two weeks.