By BUSHRAH YUSUF-BADMUS

The chairmen of the seven local government councils in Kwara South Senatorial District have ordered the immediate closure of all cattle markets within the district due to insecurity.

The chairmen are Alhaji Femi Yusuf (Ifelodun), Mr Benjamin Jolayemi (Isin), Mr Azeez Yakub (Irepodun), Mr Gabriel Olawale (Ekiti), Mr James Fadipe (Oke-Ero), Mr Sulyman Olatunji (Offa) and Mr Akanbi Kamar Olarewaju (Oyun).

In a joint statement issued on Friday in Ilorin by the seven local Government chairmen, they said the painful but necessary decision was arrived at after an extensive stakeholders engagement and reviews.

The statement said that the measure was a proactive step, aimed at addressing emerging security concerns and ensuring the safety of residents, traders, and commuters within the district.

“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 (cattle) markets have been ordered to shut down with immediate effect from Friday , Sept. 19, 2025, until further notice.

“All other produce markets are hereby directed to close by 6:00 p.m. on market days,” the chairmen said.

According to the statement, the decision was part of the ongoing efforts to strengthen the security architecture of the Senatorial District and protect lives and properties.

“The decision will be reviewed periodically, and the markets would be reopened once a conductive environment is guaranteed.

“While we acknowledge and regret the economic impact of this decision on our people, we’ve chosen to prioritise the safety of lives and properties.

“We are also adhering to long-term coordinated and structured security advisement over and above short-term inconveniences.

“However, we reassure residents and indigenes of Kwara South, that the local government councils in conjunction with the State government and relevant security agencies are doing everything within its powers to restore a lasting peace to the land.

“We therefore, enjoin all and sundry, to be corporative with governmental efforts and security operatives towards collaboratively guaranteeing the return of lasting peace to our land,” the statement read. (NAN)