President Bola Tinubu has directed a full-scale security cordon around forests in Kwara State in response to renewed cases of kidnappings and terrorist activities.
The directive was revealed on Tuesday in a statement released on X by the President’s Special Adviser on Media and Public Communication, Sunday Dare.
Dare stated that the President instructed the Nigerian Air Force to intensify aerial monitoring over the deepest parts of Kwara forests, where criminal groups are believed to be operating.
He said, “President Tinubu has ordered total security cordon over the forests in Kwara State following recent kidnappings and terrorist activities.
“President Tinubu directed the Air Force to expand its air surveillance across the innermost parts of the forests in Kwara State where it is believed the terrorists are hiding. They are to maintain a 24-hour surveillance and link up with the boots on the ground.”
He added that the “order equally applies to the Kebbi and Niger States axis where many are expected to be rescued. Communities are also urged to provide timely information about strange movements and activities to aid the work of the security forces.”
The presidential directive follows the recent abduction and rescue of 38 church members in Eruku, as well as the kidnapping of at least 10 residents on Monday evening in Isapa, a nearby settlement in Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara State.
It was gathered that the latest attack occurred around 6 p.m. when an estimated 20 to 30 armed bandits invaded the quiet farming community with numerous cattle, firing shots as villagers ran for cover.
It was also learnt that the gunmen moved through various sections of the town, shooting into houses and abducting residents, including a pregnant woman, two nursing mothers and several children.
The assault on Isapa marks the third major attack on communities in Ekiti LGA within one month. Three weeks ago, 18 residents were seized in Eruku before being rescued, and last week, 38 worshippers were kidnapped during a church thanksgiving service in the same town but were later freed.
