Two Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Kwara State—Edu and Ifelodun—have imposed a 24-hour curfew amid growing concerns over banditry and kidnapping.

The councils said the restriction of movement is aimed at supporting ongoing security clearance operations being carried out by security agencies in the affected communities.

According to the chairman of Edu Local Government, Hon. Abdullahi Bello, the curfew will be observed in Gbugbu community, including the popular Gbugbu International Market.

“The curfew is part of the measures to protect lives and property in the area as security forces continue their operation in areas of interest.”

He added that both human and vehicular movements are prohibited within the area under curfew, noting that the decision is strictly a security measure and will be reviewed as developments unfold.

Similarly, the chairman of Ifelodun Local Government, Hadji Femi Yusuf, said the restriction is on the entire Oro-Ago District from 6am on Wednesday.

“Within this period, there will be no human or vehicular traffic in the entire district. This is in support of the ongoing security clearance operation in the area. Further reviews of this measure will be communicated,” he said in a statement.

Weighing in on the development, Commissioner of Police, Adekimi Ojo, said security agencies have sustained pressure on bandits operating in the affected areas.

He spoke on Wednesday when executive members of the Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists paid him a courtesy visit.

Ojo said the curfew will help prevent the escape of criminal elements and expose informants aiding their activities.

“Bandits are currently in disarray due to the onslaught against them. Coupled with the issue of informants prevalent in some communities, the curfew will help to track and apprehend criminal elements attempting to flee with their families and assist in identifying their collaborators,” he said.

He stressed that the curfews form part of broader efforts to restore peace and reinforce the ongoing security clearance across the troubled areas. (Daily Trust)

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