Security agencies in Kwara State have recorded a major breakthrough in the fight against criminal activities with the arrest of a man from Makurdi in Benue State who is alleged to be responsible for repairing and maintaining weapons for bandits operating across the state. Several other suspects accused of supplying food, fuel, drugs and other essential items to the criminals in their forest hideouts have also been arrested. This development marks an important step in efforts to weaken the operations of organised crime groups in the region.
The Commissioner of Police, Adekimi Ojo, announced the development on Friday, 21 November 2025, during a media briefing in Ilorin. He explained that the arrests followed strategic discussions held at the State Security Council meeting at the Government House. The council reviewed the security situation across Kwara and expressed concern about the continued activities of criminal networks operating in remote and forested areas.
According to Ojo, the council also discussed the role of unregulated social media reporting in undermining security operations. He said the council observed that the release of sensitive information online, particularly during ongoing rescue missions, could endanger security personnel and victims. He urged the public to share security related information only with authorised agencies, and warned that irresponsible reporting could expose communities to greater risks.
The Commissioner praised the Nigerian military, the police and the Department of State Services for the new reinforcements deployed in Kwara State following directives issued by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He noted that the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, had recently approved the deployment of four specialised units. These include the Special Weapons and Tactics Squad, the Intelligence Response Team, the Special Intervention Squad and the Special Tactical Squad. The units are expected to boost intelligence gathering and strengthen operations against emerging threats.
Ojo said the meeting received detailed reports from security commanders on recent incidents, including the Eruku church attack. He confirmed that officers are working to track down the perpetrators and rescue those still in captivity. He added that recent air operations by security forces have disrupted multiple criminal hideouts, particularly in the Ifelodun axis, and he urged that such operations be sustained until the criminals are fully dislodged.
He further revealed that the recent arrests include individuals who allegedly supplied food, fuel and other essential items to kidnappers in forested areas. Among them is a man from Makurdi who reportedly confessed to repairing weapons for the criminals. Ojo said these arrests demonstrate progress in dismantling support networks that enable criminal groups to operate.
The Commissioner noted that the council also discussed the recent security measures affecting schools in high risk areas. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to safeguarding students and teachers. He encouraged residents to remain calm and cooperate with ongoing security efforts, and he assured the public that the government is prioritising the safe return of the abducted girls.
He said the council approved intensified joint patrols across the state as the festive season approaches. It also recommended stronger security presence in rural and vulnerable communities. Ojo added that the council cautioned residents against night farming and other activities that could increase exposure to danger. He advised immediate reporting of suspicious movements to the appropriate authorities.
A minute of silence was observed in honour of the victims of the Eruku CAC attack. The council once again extended condolences to their families and assured them that security agencies are working to bring those responsible to justice.
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