the Kwara State Government has clarified that the armed men recently apprehended by soldiers are not bandits but members of Miyetti Allah involved in a federal security operation coordinated through the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA).
The clarification follows public concern after reports that Nigerian soldiers intercepted armed men carrying AK-47 rifles in a patrol vehicle in Ifelodun Local Government Area. The situation worsened when the suspects allegedly claimed they were sponsored by the “Ilorin government,” sparking fears about insecurity.
Earlier reports suggested residents opposed an NSA plan to deploy armed Fulani herders, or Bororos, to tackle banditry in parts of Kwara. Both the state government and Miyetti Allah initially denied any such arrangement. However, officials now confirm the men were part of a joint security response following deadly attacks in the area.
Ibrahim Abdulateef, Senior Special Assistant on Communication to the Kwara Governor, explained that the men were integrated into a Joint Task Force-style operation coordinated by the NSA, alongside security personnel and local vigilantes. A patrol vehicle was provided through the local government chairman, but after completing their assignment, the men allegedly took the vehicle and were later arrested in Auchi, Edo State, not Kwara. The state has requested the return of the vehicle.
Rafiu Ajakaye, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, also clarified that one of the men, Victor, is not a DSS or Air Force officer but a police sergeant attached to the NSA’s office. He noted that Victor and other vigilantes have since left Kwara, respecting local community decisions.
Officials urged caution in reporting sensitive security matters, stressing that the country is facing a serious security emergency that demands careful leadership.
A federal security meeting held in Ilorin recently brought together Fulani leaders, the DSS, and police authorities to discuss rising kidnappings, killings, and cattle rustling in Kwara. Some Fulani stakeholders opposed arming herders, warning it could worsen insecurity. Proposals included restricting cattle movement and banning grazing after 5 p.m. in certain areas.
Despite the controversy, Miyetti Allah leaders insist they only collaborate with security agencies to promote peace and are not involved in violence.
With tensions high in Kwara South, the state government has appealed for calm, urging political leaders, community heads, and residents to act responsibly as efforts continue to restore security across affected communities.
