Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq on Friday convened a security council meeting with top government officials and security commanders to reassess strategies for strengthening public safety and tackling organised kidnapping gangs.
The meeting followed Tuesday’s attack on the Eruku community in Ekiti Local Government Area, during which lives were lost and several residents abducted.
Speaking to reporters after the session, Commissioner of Police Ojo Adekimi said the council received detailed briefings from security commanders on recent incidents and intelligence gathered since the Eruku attack. He noted that agencies are intensifying efforts to track the perpetrators and rescue victims.
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Adekimi said the council acknowledged the increased security deployments across the state, including recent air interdiction operations that have pushed kidnappers out of their hideouts, particularly in Ifelodun. “The meeting calls for sustained air operations in all identified criminal enclaves,” he said.
He also commended the involvement of federal security forces. “In line with President Bola Tinubu’s directive, the Inspector General of Police has deployed four tactical teams—the Special Weapons and Tactics unit, Intelligence Response Team, Special Tactical Squad, and Special Intervention Squad—to neutralise further threats,” he added.
According to him, security agencies have arrested several individuals supplying food and fuel to the kidnappers, as well as a suspect from Makurdi alleged to have been repairing weapons for the criminal network.
On school safety, Adekimi said the council reviewed government decisions affecting schools in vulnerable areas. He noted that security measures may be adjusted as intelligence dictates, especially in light of fresh developments in Niger State. “As efforts continue to secure the safe return of the girls, the council urges vigilance and early reporting of suspicious movements,” he said.
Looking ahead to the festive season, Adekimi said the council approved joint patrols across the state and recommended heightened protection around vulnerable locations.
The meeting also raised concerns about the role of social media in amplifying sensitive security information. “There is growing worry over the manner in which details about ransom demands and security operations are shared online, putting citizens at risk,” Adekimi warned. He urged responsible communication and greater caution in the public space.
He also advised residents to avoid night-time farming and other activities that may expose them to harm, while encouraging prompt reporting of suspicious behaviour to security agencies, traditional rulers, and relevant authorities.
The meeting ended with a minute of silence in honour of the victims of the Eruku church attack, with the council extending its condolences to the affected families and the community.
