The Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, has assured residents of Kwara State that security agencies are determined to reclaim communities threatened by bandits and restore safety across the region.
Disu gave the assurance during an operational visit to the Kwara State Police Command in Ilorin on Monday, where he met with security stakeholders and community representatives to assess the security situation and strengthen strategies against criminal activities.
Addressing participants at the meeting, the police chief acknowledged the challenges facing the state but expressed confidence that collective efforts by security agencies and local communities would help drive criminals out of affected areas.
He noted that he was already familiar with the situation in the state, having recently led a security operation that targeted bandits operating in forested areas.
“I know what is happening in Kwara State because I was here last month, where I spent a month.
”I led the team that cleared bandits from our forests, so I understand the problems being faced,” the IGP said.
Disu commended security personnel and local stakeholders for their support and dedication to maintaining peace in the state.
He emphasised that the fight against insecurity requires strong cooperation between the public and security agencies.
He urged residents to continue providing useful information that could help in tackling criminal elements.
“These criminals cannot drive us out of our own communities. We are the rightful owners of our towns, and we must work together to reclaim them,” he added.
The police boss also assured residents that officers and men of the Nigeria Police Force would intensify operations to improve security across the state and neighbouring areas.
Earlier during the visit, Disu held a closed-door meeting with Kwara State Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq to discuss security concerns and collaborative measures aimed at curbing criminal activities.
Speaking with journalists after the meeting, the IGP expressed appreciation to the state government for its support to the police in strengthening security operations.
Kwara State is among several North-Central states grappling with banditry and violent attacks. Others affected include Kogi, Benue, and Niger states.
In recent months, communities in the region have faced repeated attacks by armed groups who engage in killings, kidnappings for ransom, and forced displacement of residents.
One of the deadliest incidents occurred in February when gunmen attacked the community of Woro, killing more than 75 people in what was described as the worst attack recorded in the area in recent times.
President Bola Tinubu condemned the incident, describing it as a “cowardly and barbaric” attack on innocent villagers.
The President subsequently ordered intensified security operations under a military initiative codenamed Operation Savannah Shield, aimed at confronting armed groups and protecting vulnerable communities in the region.
