By Muyideen Aliyu, Ilorin
Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has visited communities in Ifelodun Local Government Area to reassure residents of his administration’s resolve to reinforce security and restore confidence in public safety, while also pledging measures to revitalise local economic activities.
During his visit to Babanla at the weekend, Governor AbdulRazaq commended community leaders and security operatives for their resilience in the face of recent violence. He expressed sympathy to families who lost loved ones in the attack and pledged sustained security measures to prevent a recurrence. The governor also promised that affected households would receive targeted support through social intervention schemes.
The visit follows a recent assault on Babanla by heavily armed bandits, which resulted in fatalities, the destruction of property, and widespread fear among residents.
“We are here in Babanla to commiserate with you over the recent incident,” AbdulRazaq said during his address. “We reassure you and other communities that we will do everything possible to ensure this doesn’t happen again. It is a tragic occurrence, one we are determined to stop from repeating.”
He noted that senior security personnel were now stationed in the community, with increased patrols already contributing to a return of normal activities. “You have seen that the security commanders are here, and you have witnessed visible improvement over the past week or two. An attack of this nature has never been recorded here before. It is clear that criminal gangs, under pressure in other regions, have been pushed into previously calm areas like this. But they will be driven out of this zone,” the governor assured.
AbdulRazaq expressed satisfaction with the progress made in stabilising the area. “We will ensure everything is put in order, and you can live and work in peace,” he said, adding that the Kwara State Social Investment Programme (KWASSIP) would be directed to extend material and welfare support to residents affected by the attack.
Earlier, Oba Aliyu, the traditional ruler of Babanla, welcomed the governor and praised both the state and federal governments for their intervention. He detailed the losses incurred during the assault, which included the theft of nine motorcycles, food supplies and mobile phones.
“I wish to thank the Governor profoundly for this on-the-spot assessment of the aftermath of the events,” the monarch said. “We especially appreciate your actions to guarantee peace and security in this community and across the state.”
The monarch called for urgent steps to convert Babanla’s vast stretches of unused land into productive ventures. He said that harnessing these areas for agriculture and other economic activities would not only improve livelihoods but also deprive criminals of cover.
“It is our strong belief that putting these wide expanses of land into use will not only boost the state’s economy and create massive employment opportunities but also help eliminate hiding places for criminal elements,” Oba Aliyu emphasised.
