President Bola Tinubu has approved the establishment of a new Army battalion in Kwara State as part of efforts to strengthen security and intensify the fight against banditry, terrorism and other violent crimes in the state.

The battalion, which will be located in Omu Aran, headquarters of Irepodun Local Government Area, is expected to increase the deployment of troops and military hardware to enhance security operations, especially in communities affected by rising cases of kidnappings and bandit attacks.

Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, disclosed this in a statement issued on Tuesday by his Deputy Chief Press Secretary, Mashood Agboola.

He said the approval was another demonstration of the Federal Government’s commitment to addressing security challenges in the state.

The governor expressed appreciation to Tinubu for approving the new military formation, saying it would strengthen ongoing counterterrorism and anti-kidnapping operations across the state.

“On behalf of the people and government of our state, I wholeheartedly thank Mr President for yet another promise kept to the state. We are confident that the new battalion will greatly strengthen counterterrorism and anti-kidnapping operations across various theatres.

“Specifically, I express our appreciation to the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, for the swiftness with which he graciously processed our request for more hands to strengthen the presence of the Army in the state,” the governor said.

AbdulRazaq further acknowledged the contributions of the Office of the National Security Adviser and other security agencies for their sustained efforts in combating violent crimes across Kwara.

“Of particular note are the other discreet, multi-agency efforts of government to stamp out kidnappings, free all victims, and clear all unwanted elements from our forests,” he added.

The development comes amid renewed concerns over worsening insecurity in parts of Kwara, particularly in Babanla community in Ifelodun Local Government Area, where residents have alleged that bandits continue to operate with ease despite repeated security operations.

Residents of Babanla had earlier raised fresh alarm over what they described as the deteriorating security situation in the community, alleging that influential individuals have discouraged them from speaking publicly about repeated attacks by armed bandits.

The latest outcry followed Monday’s attack in which gunmen reportedly killed one resident and abducted another, further heightening fears among residents who claim the community has become a major operational base for criminal gangs terrorising parts of Igbomina land. (PUNCH)

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