Local government chairmen in Kwara South Senatorial District have directed the immediate closure of all Kara (cattle) markets in the zone over worsening security threats.
The decision, announced on Thursday after a security meeting with military officials, was taken under the aegis of the Forum of Seven Local Government Chairmen in Kwara South. The shutdown takes effect from Friday, September 19, and will remain in force until further notice.
In addition, the chairmen ordered that all other produce markets in the senatorial district must close by 6 p.m. on market days.
According to a jointly signed statement, the measure follows “extensive stakeholders’ engagement and reviews” and is aimed at safeguarding lives and property in a region that has witnessed a string of violent attacks in recent months.
“While the invading criminals have been operationally decimated in the last few weeks, clean-up operations by the military and hybrid operatives are still ongoing. Therefore, all Kara markets have been ordered to shut down with immediate effect,” the statement read.
The council bosses acknowledged the economic implications but insisted that security must take priority.
“We’ve chosen to prioritise the safety of lives and property and adhere to long-term coordinated and structured security advisement over and above short-term inconveniences,” the chairmen said.
They assured residents of collaboration between local councils, security agencies, and the state government to restore peace, while urging communities to cooperate with security operatives.
The statement was signed by the executive chairmen of Ifelodun, Isin, Irepodun, Ekiti, Oke-Ero, Offa, and Oyun LGAs.
Meanwhile, in a related development, the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has relocated its orientation camp in Kwara State from Yikpata in Edu LGA to Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin, citing safety concerns.
State Coordinator Onifade Olaoluwa Joshua confirmed the move, saying the decision was approved by the state government after concerns were raised about the security of corps members.
“We are fully prepared to host the orientation course, and the welfare of participants will be safeguarded. Soldiers and other security personnel will be deployed to guarantee the safety of corps members during the three-week exercise,” Joshua said.
