Local government chairmen in Kwara South Senatorial District have announced the immediate closure of all Kara (cattle) markets in the zone following rising security threats.
The decision, effective Friday, September 19, was reached after a joint security meeting involving the seven councils, security agencies, and other stakeholders.
A statement signed by the executive chairmen of Ifelodun, Isin, Irepodun, Ekiti, Oke-Ero, Offa, and Oyun LGAs said the move was necessary to safeguard lives and property in communities affected by recent violent attacks.
“While invading criminals have been significantly weakened in the last few weeks, military and hybrid operatives are still carrying out clean-up operations. For this reason, all Kara markets in Kwara South are hereby closed with immediate effect,” the statement read.
The leaders further directed that all produce markets in the senatorial district must shut down by 6 p.m. on market days until further notice.
Acknowledging the hardship the order might cause, the council chairmen stressed that public safety outweighed temporary inconveniences.
“We’ve chosen to prioritise the safety of lives and property over short-term economic discomfort. Security remains our top priority,” the statement added.
They assured residents that the state government and security agencies were working closely with the councils to restore peace and stability, urging communities to support ongoing operations.
The development comes just as the National Youth Service Corps relocated its orientation camp in Kwara State from Yikpata, Edu LGA, to Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin, citing safety concerns.
Kwara NYSC Coordinator, Onifade Olaoluwa Joshua, confirmed the relocation, saying:
“We are fully prepared to host the orientation course. The welfare of corps members is paramount, and soldiers as well as other security personnel will be on ground to ensure their safety during the three-week programme.”
The twin measures, officials say, highlight the heightened vigilance of both state and local authorities as they seek to tackle insecurity in the state.
