The Nigerian Army has launched a major offensive across forests in Kwara State, deploying a full brigade and heavy equipment to dislodge kidnapping gangs operating in parts of Kwara South and Kwara North senatorial districts.
Troops have begun sweeping operations through communities around Oke Ode and Babanla in Ifelodun Local Government Area, as well as Edu and Patigi LGAs, areas long plagued by abductions and criminal hideouts.
In a statement issued in Ilorin and signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Rafiu Ajakaye, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq welcomed the troops and pledged total support for the operation.
“The operation is also extending to Edu and Patigi to comb through thick forests from which kidnappers have launched cowardly attacks on communities and abducted people for ransom,” the statement said.
Governor AbdulRazaq, who met with President Bola Tinubu over the issue during the President’s recent visit to Jos, commended the Federal Government, the military high command, and other security agencies for their renewed efforts to ensure peace and safety in the state.
“We will not spare any resources in supporting the military, DSS, police, and other security agencies as they work to strengthen the security of lives and property,” the governor said.
He expressed optimism that the operation, launched under Operation Fasan Yanma, would “eliminate all forms of threats” in affected areas.
AbdulRazaq added: “I thank the President and the security agencies for their efforts so far. As I said a few days ago, we just need to double our efforts to save the people. We are confident that the Brigadier General A.A. Babatunde-led Army Brigade will succeed in this vital mission and clear the entire areas.”
