The Senate on Wednesday urged the Federal Government to urgently strengthen security operations in Kwara North Senatorial District following a worsening wave of killings, kidnappings, and attacks across communities in the area.
Lawmakers called for the establishment of additional military bases, deployment of more security personnel and equipment, and intensified joint operations to flush out criminal groups reportedly operating within the Kainji Lake forest axis and surrounding areas.
The resolution followed the adoption of a motion sponsored by Senator Sadiq Umar, titled “Urgent Need for Federal Government Intervention to Address the Re-occurring Insecurity in Kwara North Senatorial District,” during plenary presided over by Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
Leading debate on the motion, Umar painted a grim picture of the security situation, noting that several communities had suffered repeated attacks, including killings, abductions, and destruction of property.
He lamented that months after the Woro massacre, many women and children abducted during the attack were still in captivity, while families continue to endure psychological and economic hardship.
“Several months after the unfortunate Woro massacre, many women and children abducted during the attack remain in captivity,” Umar said.
The senator also raised concerns over attacks on traditional institutions, citing the burning of the Emir of Yashikira’s palace on the eve of Sallah celebrations and the abduction of members of the royal family.
He further disclosed that communities in Patigi, Edu, and Lafiagi Local Government Areas have continued to experience repeated assaults, with armed groups operating freely in some rural areas.
According to him, the difficult terrain around the Kainji Lake National Park and adjoining forest reserves has created safe havens for criminal elements.
“The vast and difficult terrain of the Kainji Lake National Park and adjoining ungoverned spaces have continued to provide safe havens for criminal elements,” he said.
Umar warned that failure to decisively confront the situation could further embolden armed groups and worsen insecurity across the region.
The Senate also called for urgent rehabilitation and expansion of key road networks in the district to improve security response times and boost economic activity.
Following deliberations, the chamber mandated its Committees on National Security, Army, Air Force, Police Affairs, Works and Special Duties to engage stakeholders and report back within four weeks.
Lawmakers also urged security agencies, including the Armed Forces, Police, and DSS, to intensify rescue operations for all kidnapped victims still in captivity.
A minute of silence was observed in honour of those killed in the attacks, while condolences were extended to affected families and communities.
