Edu, Patigi Stakeholders Task Gov AbdulRazaq on Insecurity, Infrastructure, as Governor Promises Swift Action
Stakeholders from Edu and Patigi Local Government Areas have called on Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq to step up security interventions and infrastructural development in their communities, lamenting the devastating impact of banditry and kidnappings.
The appeal was made during a meeting with the governor at Government House, Ilorin following security concerns in some parts of the state.
Speaking on behalf of the people, the stakeholders said the insecurity crisis has not only paralyzed economic activities but also left residents mentally and psychologically traumatized.
They expressed concerns over the governor’s delayed visit to the affected areas to commiserate with families of victims.
“Our people are in despair. The bandits have crippled our economy, our farms, and our social lives. We request that more troops and the newly trained National Forest Guards be deployed immediately to flush out the criminals from their hideouts,” said Alhaji Dabarako Mohammed, Chairman of Edu/Patigi Stakeholders.
The stakeholders also drew attention to the deplorable state of roads linking the two LGAs, particularly the Tsaragi–Patigi road, as well as the blackout that has left communities without electricity, water supply, and support for agriculture — the mainstay of the area.
In response, Governor AbdulRazaq assured the delegation that government is intensifying efforts to restore peace and will continue to work with the Presidency and military authorities.
“As the Chief Security Officer of the State, I have taken up the matter directly with the Presidency, and more troops are on the way.
“We are also putting together a homegrown community security architecture to serve as a first line of defence, alongside the National Forest Guards,” the governor said.
He urged the stakeholders to harmonize their proposals within one week on how to empower local vigilantes and hunters for effective community policing.
AbdulRazaq also confirmed that condolence and assessment visits to Edu and Patigi are already scheduled.
“No citizen of Kwara will be left unprotected. We will also provide palliatives and logistics support to victims and families of those who lost their lives.
However, I must caution against vandalism and attacks on public institutions such as the Emir’s palace and NDLEA office in Lafiagi. Youths must not take laws into their hands,” he warned.
On infrastructure, the governor directed stakeholders to provide details of power supply issues, waterworks, and farming needs for dry-season agriculture.
He assured that fresh pressure is being mounted on the Federal Government to resolve the delays affecting the Tsaragi–Gbugbu–Patigi road project, while efforts are ongoing to upgrade the Kwara State College of Education (Technical), Lafiagi.
The stakeholders later held a follow-up meeting on October 3, 2025, to harmonize their recommendations for onward submission to the governor.
