Troops Restore Order in Kwara as Youths Protest Rising Kidnappings
By: Israel Adeleke
OPEN TELEVISION NAIJA (OTN) News reports as gathered that security agencies have restored calm in Omu-Aran, Ifelodun, and Isin Local Government Areas of Kwara State following violent protests by youths against the rising wave of kidnappings for ransom in their communities.
OTN News further reports as gathered that the Commander of 22 Armoured Brigade, Brigadier General Ezra Barkins, alongside the Kwara State Commissioner of Police, CP Adekimi Ojo, and the Director of the Department of State Services (DSS) in Kwara State, Mr. Michael Oganwu, led the joint security response over the weekend.
OTN News observes that their visit followed a distress call by the Executive Governor of Kwara State, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, after angry youths blocked sections of the Omu-Aran–Eleyin–Ajase road in Isin LGA, halting traffic flow and creating panic.
Troops of the 22 Armoured Brigade, working in collaboration with the Police and DSS, swiftly dispersed the protesters, restored order, and reopened the highway to commuters.
Some identified ringleaders were arrested and handed over to the Kwara State Police Command for investigation and prosecution.
Speaking after the operation, Brigadier General Barkins reassured residents of the Army’s commitment to their safety while cautioning against violent protests.
He urged young people to embrace peaceful and lawful means of airing their grievances, stressing the importance of collaboration with security agencies in tackling kidnapping and other criminal activities.
“Security is a collective responsibility,” Barkins stated, calling on communities to provide timely and credible information that would enable swift interventions against threats.
Later, the security chiefs met with the Chairman of Isin Local Government Area, Honourable Jolayemi Benjamin, village heads, and other stakeholders.
At the meeting, community leaders were advised to counsel youths against violence and work closely with security operatives.
However, Hon. Benjamin commended the quick response of the joint security team and pledged the LGA’s continued support in efforts to restore peace and protect lives and property.
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