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Tag: Kwara

  • SERAP, NGE Urge Tinubu, Governors to Protect Journalists, Tackle Insecurity

    SERAP, NGE Urge Tinubu, Governors to Protect Journalists, Tackle Insecurity

    The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project and the Nigerian Guild of Editors have called on the administration of Bola Tinubu, state governors, and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory to urgently safeguard press freedom and address worsening insecurity across parts of northern Nigeria.

    The call was made in a joint statement to mark World Press Freedom Day, following a conference held in Ikeja, Lagos, where stakeholders discussed the role of the media in promoting accountability, justice, and human rights amid rising violence.

    Both organisations stressed that protecting journalists and ensuring information integrity are critical to peace, security, and democratic stability. They warned that continued attacks on media practitioners and restrictions on press freedom could further weaken governance and fuel misinformation.

    According to the groups, ongoing violence in states such as Benue, Borno, Kwara, Plateau, and Sokoto has led to widespread killings, displacement, and destruction of livelihoods, with women and children disproportionately affected.

    They described the situation as a reflection of systemic failures to prevent harm, investigate abuses, and hold perpetrators accountable, noting that such lapses violate Nigeria’s obligations under the Constitution and international human rights frameworks.

    The organisations also highlighted the humanitarian consequences of the crisis, including разрушed communities and lack of justice for victims, warning that persistent impunity continues to erode public trust in government institutions.

    Referencing the 2026 global theme by UNESCO, “Shaping a Future of Peace,” they emphasised the central role of a free and independent media in fostering stability and sustainable development.

    They noted that Sections 22 and 39 of the Nigerian Constitution mandate the media to hold government accountable and guarantee freedom of expression, urging authorities not only to refrain from interference but also to actively protect journalists.

    Among their recommendations, SERAP and NGE called for thorough and independent investigations into human rights violations, prosecution of offenders and their sponsors, and effective remedies for victims, including compensation and rehabilitation.

    They also urged the Federal Government to improve transparency in security operations, establish public reporting systems for tracking incidents and responses, and collaborate with international bodies for independent fact-finding missions.

    The groups further appealed to the National Assembly to exercise its oversight powers by convening public hearings on insecurity and attacks on journalists, with a view to strengthening legal protections and accountability mechanisms.

    Speaking at the event, human rights lawyer Femi Falana described impunity as a major driver of violence, warning that any government that fails to protect its citizens undermines its legitimacy.

    He emphasised that journalists play a vital role in exposing abuses, preventing violence, and strengthening democracy, adding that they should be seen as partners rather than adversaries.

    The event brought together media executives, editors, and civil society actors, all of whom expressed commitment to advancing press freedom and ensuring accountability in Nigeria’s governance and security systems.

  • Fresh Security Breach as Terrorists Hit Army Base in Kwara

    Fresh Security Breach as Terrorists Hit Army Base in Kwara

    Three personnel of the Nigerian Army were killed in the early hours of Tuesday while repelling a terrorist attack on a military position in Kemanji, Kaiama Local Government Area, Kwara State. Authorities said several of the attackers were neutralised during the confrontation, preventing a planned assault on nearby residents.

    Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq disclosed that the troops responded swiftly to the attack around 3 a.m., successfully pushing back the armed group before they could enter the community or carry out kidnappings.

    He said the soldiers’ response ensured that no civilians were abducted as intended by the attackers, describing the operation as a decisive effort that averted further bloodshed and protected vulnerable residents.

    Despite the successful defence, the governor confirmed that three soldiers died during the exchange of gunfire and expressed condolences to their families, pledging continued support for relatives of fallen personnel and sustained efforts to secure lives and property across the state.

    The incident comes amid rising security concerns in parts of Kwara, following earlier attacks on Mari and Dina communities in Patigi Local Government Area where residents were reportedly killed and others forced to flee after suspected bandits opened fire indiscriminately.

  • Sarkin Gobir Congratulates Zanna of Ilorin, Engr. Sagaya, on 80th Birthday

    Sarkin Gobir Congratulates Zanna of Ilorin, Engr. Sagaya, on 80th Birthday

    The Sarkin Gobir and Madawaki of Ilorin Emirate Alhaji Yakubu Garba Gobir, has extended warm congratulations to the Emir of Ilorin, Dr Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, CFR on the occasion of the 80th birthday anniversary of the Zanna of Ilorin, Engr. Yusuf Lanre Sagaya, FNSE, FAEng, MFR, OFR.

    In a statement released on Sunday, the Sarkin Gobir described Engr. Yusuf Lanre Sagaya as a distinguished elder statesman, respected traditional titleholder, and seasoned professional whose life has been marked by humility, service, integrity, and commitment to community development.

    He praised the celebrant’s contributions to the growth and unity of the Ilorin Emirate, noting that his wisdom and leadership have continued to inspire both the younger generation and his contemporaries.

    “Reaching the age of 80 is a remarkable milestone worthy of celebration. Zanna’s life reflects dedication to humanity, excellence in his profession, and unwavering support for the traditional institution,” the statement read.

    The Sarkin Gobir further prayed for continued good health, strength, and longevity for the octogenarian, urging him to continue offering his wealth of experience for the progress of society.

  • Gunmen Storm Kwara Farm, Abduct Four Family Members

    Gunmen Storm Kwara Farm, Abduct Four Family Members

    Gunmen suspected to be bandits abducted four members of the same family in Babanla community, Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, during an attack on Wednesday morning.

    The attackers reportedly invaded the farmland where the victims were working, firing sporadically before rounding up members of the family. Five people were initially seized, but an elderly man was later released while four others were taken away.

    Sources said the victims had gone to the farm for their daily activities when the armed men struck suddenly and surrounded them. The identities of the abducted persons have not yet been officially confirmed.

    Residents noted that Babanla and nearby communities have experienced rising security challenges in recent months, citing concerns over inadequate security presence in remote farming areas.

    Authorities have yet to issue an official statement on the incident, while residents are calling for intensified patrols and urgent efforts to secure the safe release of the abducted family members.

  • 16 Suspected Bandits Arrested by Amotekun on Ekiti-Kwara Border

    The Ekiti State Security Network Agency, Amotekun Corps, Oye Local Government Command, has arrested 16 suspected bandits attempting to enter the state from neighbouring Kwara. The arrests followed reports of unusual activity in Gede Farm settlement, Isan-Ekiti, where residents noticed a large group of unfamiliar individuals moving with herds of cattle.

    The presence of the group caused panic among locals and disrupted daily activities, prompting the Oye Local Government Command to alert nearby Amotekun units. A coordinated operation was deployed, leading to the interception and arrest of the suspects.

    Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects reportedly fled Kwara State due to intensified security operations and confessed to involvement in cattle rustling. Many of the recovered animals were allegedly stolen from residents in Kwara State.

    Recovered items from the suspects included cash, seven Tecno mobile phones, assorted charms, three identity cards linked to the Vigilante Group of Nigeria (VGN), and several cows. The operation highlights Amotekun’s proactive efforts to curb cross-border criminal activities.

    The suspects and recovered exhibits have been handed over to the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) of the Ekiti State Police Command in Ado-Ekiti for further investigation and legal action. Authorities have assured residents that security operations along the state border will continue to prevent bandit incursions.

  • Kwara NCoS Promotes 391 Officers in Historic Ceremony

    Kwara NCoS Promotes 391 Officers in Historic Ceremony

     

    The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), Kwara State Command, has decorated 391 officers following the largest promotion exercise in the Command’s history, held at its headquarters in Ilorin on tuesday, january 6th 2026.

    In a statement issued  by the state public relations officer, CSC, Philip Olumide Adegbulugbe, said the promotions, spanned senior and junior ranks, included one officer elevated to Deputy Controller of Corrections, five to Assistant Controllers, 14 to Chief Superintendents, 25 to Superintendents and others across various ranks down to Correctional Assistants I.

    The ceremony, presided over by State Controller CC Tolorunshagba Femi Emmanuel, was attended by representatives of sister security agencies, government parastatals, retired officers, and families of the promoted staff.

    The Controller In his address, urged officers to demonstrate professionalism, discipline, and commitment to the Service’s core mandate, while commending the Minister of Interior, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, and the Controller-General of Corrections, Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche, for their support and dedication to staff welfare.

  • Anambra Tops 2025 Fiscal Performance Ranking, Cross River Plunges

    Anambra Tops 2025 Fiscal Performance Ranking, Cross River Plunges

    Anambra State has emerged as Nigeria’s best-performing state in the 2025 Fiscal Performance Ranking, according to BudgIT’s State of States report released on Tuesday. Lagos, Kwara, Abia, and Edo completed the top five, while Cross River fell sharply from fifth in 2024 to 30th in 2025.

    Rivers State, previously a consistent top-five performer, was excluded from this year’s rankings due to a state of emergency that prevented the release of audited financial data. BudgIT marked this year’s report as the 10th edition of its subnational fiscal analysis, highlighting trends in governance and fiscal sustainability across Nigeria’s 36 states.

    The report noted notable movements in the 2025 rankings. “Anambra rose from second to first, Lagos held second place, Kwara climbed to third, Edo entered the top five, and Abia, previously outside the top 10, now ranks fourth,” BudgIT stated. Other improvements included Akwa Ibom, up 17 places to 10th, and Zamfara, up nine places to 17th.

    At the lower end, Imo, Kogi, Jigawa, Benue, and Yobe occupied the bottom positions. The ranking methodology relied on five indices assessing states’ revenue sufficiency, growth, total expense coverage, debt sustainability, and prioritisation of capital over recurrent expenditure.

    On revenue performance, Enugu now leads with an Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) to operating expense ratio of 146.68%, while Lagos maintains 120.87%. Only five states—Abia, Anambra, Kwara, Ogun, and Edo—generated sufficient IGR to cover at least half of their operating costs, down from six in 2024. Fourteen states require over five times their IGR to meet expenditures.

    In capital expenditure, Abia led with 77.05% of its total expenditure devoted to capital projects, followed by Anambra, Enugu, Ebonyi, and Taraba, each allocating over 70%. Overall, 24 states spent at least half their budgets on capital projects, while several, including Bauchi and Ogun, spent over 60% on personnel and overhead.

    Total recurrent revenue across the 35 states rose from N6.6 trillion in 2022 to N14.4 trillion in 2024, a 66.28% increase. Lagos contributed N1.93 trillion in 2024, accounting for 13.42% of total revenue. Gross FAAC transfers rose by 110.74% to N11.38 trillion, with states such as Oyo, Delta, and Anambra recording over 600% growth between 2015 and 2024. Despite this, 28 states still relied on FAAC for at least 55% of their revenue.

    Subnational debt increased modestly from N9.89 trillion in 2023 to N10.57 trillion in 2024, with Lagos, Kaduna, Edo, Ogun, and Bauchi holding 50.32% of total debt. Encouragingly, 31 states reduced domestic debt by at least N10 billion, while foreign debt fell by over $200 million.

    BudgIT also highlighted gaps in social spending. Only 66.9% of education budgets were implemented, with per capita spending averaging N6,981. Health budgets achieved 61.9% execution, with per capita spending averaging N3,483. Only a handful of states exceeded N10,000 per capita for education or N5,000 for health.

    Vahyala Kwaga, BudgIT’s Group Head of Research, stressed the need for reform: “Fiscal sustainability requires states to improve revenue systems, cut waste, and prioritise infrastructure and human development investments that deliver long-term value.” The report underscores persistent imbalances despite overall growth across states.

  • Gov. AbdulRazaq vows to crush kidnappers in Kwara

    Gov. AbdulRazaq vows to crush kidnappers in Kwara

    Kwara state map

    Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has vowed that kidnappers will have no hiding place in the state, assuring residents of intensified security operations across affected areas.

    The governor made the declaration after meeting with President Bola Tinubu on the sidelines of the President’s visit to Jos over the weekend. He commended Tinubu, the military high command, and other security agencies for their renewed intervention to eliminate all threats to public safety.

    In a statement released on Wednesday, AbdulRazaq welcomed the deployment of a full army brigade under the ongoing Operation Fasan Yanma, describing it as a major step toward restoring peace in Kwara South and Kwara North.

    “We will not spare any resources in supporting the military, DSS, police, and other security agencies as they work to secure lives and property,” he said.

    The governor expressed confidence in the ability of the Brigadier General A.A. Babatunde-led brigade to succeed in its mission to clear out criminal elements from forests and communities in the state.

    He also praised the Office of the National Security Adviser, the Chief of Army Staff, the General Officer Commanding 2nd Division, and other security officials for their support in strengthening security operations in Kwara.

    AbdulRazaq further urged residents to cooperate with security operatives by providing credible intelligence to aid the ongoing counter-kidnapping campaign.

  • Husband Insists on Divorce, Wife Faints in Court

    Husband Insists on Divorce, Wife Faints in Court

    kwara map logo | Kwara State Government
    Kwara state map

    There was drama at the Area Court Centre, Igboro, Ilorin, Kwara State, on Wednesday when a woman, identified as Mulikat Yusuf, fainted after her husband, Ishaq Abdulganiyu, rejected her plea for reconciliation and insisted on ending their marriage.

    The incident occurred during proceedings before Judge Toyin Aluko, where Abdulganiyu told the court he no longer wished to continue the marriage.

    “I’m tired of the marriage, My Lord,” he reportedly said. “We’ve had several misunderstandings, and I don’t see any reason to continue.”

    In tears, Mulikat begged the court to intervene, saying she still wanted to make the marriage work. “My Lord, please help me talk to him. I have nowhere to go. I have given birth to six children for him, and I still want the marriage to work,” she pleaded.

    However, Abdulganiyu stood firm on his decision to end the union, leaving his wife distraught. Moments after leaving the courtroom in tears, Mulikat reportedly collapsed outside, prompting panic among court officials and onlookers.

    Sympathisers quickly came to her aid and revived her by pouring water on her face. A court official, who spoke anonymously, confirmed that she regained consciousness after a few minutes and was assisted to a bench to rest.

    “She fainted immediately after the man confirmed he would not change his decision,” the official said.

    Presiding Judge Toyin Aluko later advised Mulikat to make every effort to reconcile with her husband and resolve their differences amicably.

    The case was adjourned until December 10, 2025, for a report on the reconciliation or continuation of the hearing.

  • Kwara Govt clamps down on noise pollution, shuts six outlets

    Kwara Govt clamps down on noise pollution, shuts six outlets

    The Kwara State Government has sealed six facilities in Ilorin for violating regulations on noise pollution, as part of a renewed enforcement drive to promote a safer and healthier environment.

    The operation, which began on Monday, targeted business premises and entertainment centres found to be generating excessive noise within residential areas across the metropolis.

    Commissioner for Environment, Hajia Nafisat Musa Buge, who spoke after the monitoring exercise, said the ministry had shown enough leniency to operators whose activities produce noise but could no longer tolerate the discomfort caused to residents.

    “We have been very diplomatic with business owners whose trade revolves around generating noise, but we can no longer marry that with the discomfort it creates for members of the public, especially within residential areas,” she said.

    Represented by the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Abubakar Ayinla, the commissioner disclosed that the ministry had received numerous complaints from residents regarding noise pollution in the city.

    “Folding our arms may mean endorsement, so we have commenced the sealing of relevant facilities where noise levels exceed what is acceptable for human comfort,” she added.

    Buge warned that any business intending to operate in noise-generating environments must properly soundproof their facilities or comply strictly with the environmental guidelines communicated by the ministry.

    She noted that the ministry would continue the exercise until full compliance is achieved, stressing that noise pollution poses a significant risk to public health and wellbeing.

    The commissioner also urged residents, religious organisations, and business owners to adhere to the permissible noise levels of 55 decibels during the day and 40 decibels at night, as stipulated by environmental regulations.