Kwara Lawmakers Move to Strengthen Anti-Kidnapping Law, Establish Magistrate Courts

Lawmakers at the Kwara State House of Assembly have begun fresh moves to tighten the noose on criminal elements in the state, as two important bills scaled readings during plenary on Tuesday, June 3, 2025.

Presided over by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Yakubu Danladi-Salihu, the session saw the introduction of a bill seeking to establish Magistrate Courts across the state, as well as an amendment to the 2010 law prohibiting kidnapping.

While leading the debate on the amendment bill tagged “KWHAB 8”, the lawmaker representing Kaiama/Kemanji/Wajibe constituency, Hon. Abdullahi Halidu Danbaba, emphasized the need for stiffer penalties to deter kidnappers.

“Kidnapping continues to pose a serious security challenge in Kwara State. Despite the existing law, offenders are still emboldened. We must take a stronger stance to protect our citizens,” Danbaba said.

Supporting voices came from across the chamber, including Hon. Magaji Oba Abdulkadir (Ilorin Central), Hon. Ganiyu Folabi Salahu (Omupo), Hon. Saba Yisa Gideon (Edu), Hon. Owolabi Olatunde Rasak (Share/Oke-Ode), and Hon. Arinola Fatima Lawal (Ilorin East). The House resolved to forward the amendment bill to the Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Judiciary for a public hearing.

Similarly, the “Magistrate Court (Establishment) Bill, 2025: KWHAB 9” was read for the first time, following a motion moved by Hon. Abdulkadir and seconded by Hon. Salahu. The bill seeks to establish a legal framework for magistrate courts, covering appointments and working conditions for magistrates.

Speaker Danladi-Salihu directed that copies of the bill be circulated among members for detailed study ahead of the second reading. The bill has now been referred to the Business and Rules Committee for further legislative action.

Meanwhile, students and lecturers from Life Gate College of Education, Laduba-Afon Road, were present at the gallery to observe the legislative process as part of their civic education experience.

The session was adjourned following a motion jointly moved by Hon. Abdulkadir and Hon. Maryam Yusuf Aladi (Ilorin South).

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