Kwara Monarch Urges Government to Open Forests to Curb Banditry
The traditional ruler of Babanla community in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, Oba Adegboyega Yusuf Alabi, has called for the opening up of vast forests in the area for productive ventures as a long-term solution to recurring banditry.
Speaking with journalists in Ilorin on Wednesday, the monarch noted that Babanla hosts the largest forest in the state, stretching into Patigi and Edu local government areas and parts of neighbouring Kogi State. He explained that the forest had become a hideout for bandits who launch attacks on surrounding communities.
Oba Alabi urged the Kwara State Government to collaborate with the federal authorities to establish a military formation in the area or encourage investors to develop the forest for agricultural purposes, thereby limiting criminal activity.
The monarch also dismissed rumours linking him to kidnapping or alleged proceeds from ransom payments, stressing that he had never been arrested or investigated in connection with such allegations.
Reflecting on recent attacks that left residents in fear, the ruler described the incident as a major blow to the community. He assured families of victims that peace efforts were ongoing, even as he acknowledged the difficulty of fully shielding the community from insecurity.
Oba Alabi praised Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq for prioritising security and welfare, while also commending the coordinated response of security agencies, including the Nigerian Army, Police, Department of State Services (DSS), and the Governor’s security aides, in working to restore calm in Babanla.
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