By Nchetachi Chukwuajah
Following the call by the Senate to the Federal Government for the establishment of a permanent military base in Kwara South senatorial district, the Federal Government has deployed soldiers to the Oke-Ode community in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State to tackle banditry and restore peace.
The National President of the Oke-Ode Development Association, Alhaji Abdulganiyu Ajala-Bello, disclosed this to newsmen in Oke-Ode on Friday, October 10, expressing optimism that the move will curtail the activities of bandits and restore peace to the area.
While describing the move as a “right step in the right direction,” Ajala-Bello noted that the community had long demanded a military presence to check the rising wave of insecurity in the area.
He added that residents of more than 52 communities have fled their homes due to incessant attacks, leading to loss of lives and mass displacement of people.
“It is a good development because it is one of the things we have been clamouring for as a community.
“Some time ago, we appealed to the Federal Government to set up a military base in the area because banditry had reached an alarming rate. Almost all the villages around the axis have been attacked by bandits.
“So many loved ones were lost; many others were injured, while some are still in captivity. We felt that if there was a military base in that area, it would curtail their activities.
“Presently, I can confirm that soldiers are in Oke-Ode as we speak, doing their duties, and we want to thank the Federal Government for this,” Ajala-Bello said.
The community leader further disclosed that with the presence of security operatives, residents are gradually returning to their normal lives and commercial activities are reviving.
“Gradually, life is coming back to normal. Yesterday was our market day, a five-day interval market, and business activities have resumed. We pray that the victims and the community recover fully from their losses,” he said.
Ajala-Bello also disclosed the community’s efforts to transport displaced residents back home.
“Some people want to return but do not have the transport fare. So, on Saturday, buses will be provided at designated areas in Ilorin, precisely at Olak Petroleum Station, opposite A Division, to convey people back home from 7:00 a.m.,” he stated.
Recall that on Wednesday, October 8, the Senate had urged the Federal Government to establish a permanent military base in the senatorial district following a motion sponsored by Senator representing Kwara South, Oyelola Ashiru, who raised concerns over escalating attacks, kidnappings, and killings in the region.
In his motion, Ashiru said at least 142 persons have been kidnapped and over 70 killed in the last 12 months across Kwara South, with no fewer than 25 communities deserted due to recurring attacks.
The lawmaker added that no fewer than 12 forest guards and local vigilante members were killed in an ambush by armed bandits, including traditional and community leaders in several Local Government Areas across Kwara South.
