Category: News

Nigeria’s Independence Paradox: A Plea to the President and Kwara State Governor to Address Poverty-Fueled Insecurity

Nigeria’s Independence and the Paradox of Prosperity Amidst Hardship: A Call to Action for the President and Kwara State Governor

Today, October 1st, Nigeria celebrates its independence, marking another year of sovereignty and aspirations for a better nation. As Nigerians reflect on the journey since gaining independence, the contrast between the country’s vast resources and the struggles of its citizens is stark.

The Speech of the President: Aspirations vs. Reality
The President’s speech on this day of celebration likely underscores visions for Nigeria’s growth, development, and prosperity. However, for many Nigerians, there’s a palpable disconnect between governmental narratives of progress and the harsh realities on the ground. Despite Nigeria being a country with significant oil wealth and other natural resources, generating substantial revenue monthly, a large portion of the population grapples with economic hardship.

Poverty and Insecurity: A Vicious Cycle
There’s a growing belief among observers that the increasing levels of poverty in Nigeria are intricately linked to the rising insecurity across the country. Factors fueling this narrative include:

• Economic Struggles: High poverty rates contribute to desperation and vulnerability, sometimes driving individuals toward criminal activities out of economic necessity.
• Lack of Opportunities: Limited access to education, jobs, and basic amenities can exacerbate feelings of marginalization.
• Resource Management: Questions abound regarding the management and equitable distribution of Nigeria’s wealth.

The Human Cost of Insecurity in Kwara State
Kwara State, like many parts of Nigeria, is grappling with severe insecurity issues, including banditry, kidnappings, and attacks on communities. Recent incidents highlight the gravity of the situation¹ ² ³:

• Attacks and Displacement: Communities in Kwara South, like Babanla and Oke-Ode in Ifelodun Local Government Area, have witnessed violent attacks leading to deaths, kidnappings, and mass displacement.
• Former Senate President’s Concerns: Dr. Bukola Saraki has criticized the Kwara State government for complacency regarding security, citing 70 deaths, 42 kidnappings, and 25 communities sacked in the past 12 months.
• Military Intervention: The Nigerian Army has relocated a General Officer Commanding to Kwara to boost response to insecurity.
• Community Leaders’ Appeals: Leaders like Anu Ibiwoye allege some bandits are foreign fighters, emphasizing the need for urgent government action.

Situation in Kwara State: Dire and Demanding Attention

• Porous Borders: Kwara’s borders with Niger and Kogi states are seen as transit routes for armed groups.
• Impact on Farming: Insecurity has disrupted farming, contributing to food insecurity and economic hardship.
• Calls for Action: Amb. Samuel Bill urges collective action, establishment of military bases, and use of technology for surveillance to restore peace.

Open Letter to President Bol Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Abdulrahman AbdulRazaq
To His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and Governor Abdulrahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State,

As Nigeria marks another year of independence, we underscore the urgent need for addressing intertwined challenges of poverty and insecurity, particularly in states like Kwara grappling with banditry and kidnappings.

We respectfully call on you to consider:

• Enhanced Security Measures: Deploy adequate security personnel and technology to hotspots in Kwara.
• Economic Diversification and Investment: Boost sectors like agriculture to create opportunities and reduce vulnerability.
• Transparency and Accountability: Ensure resource management aligns with citizens’ welfare.
• Community Engagement: Foster collaboration with local leaders and vigilantes for effective security strategies.
• Support for Victims: Establish mechanisms for assisting displaced persons and victims’ families.

Mr. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Abdulrahman AbdulRazaq, collective efforts are pivotal in steering Nigeria toward a future where independence translates into security, prosperity, and dignity for all citizens.

Pathways Forward
Addressing Nigeria’s challenges requires multifaceted approaches:

• Economic Diversification: Reducing dependence on oil.
• Investment in Human Capital: Focus on education.
• Good Governance: Transparency in resource management.
• Security Strategies: Holistic military, intelligence, and socio-economic interventions.

– Bandit Demand 200 Million Ransom to release Kwara businessman abducted in Edu Local Government of Kwara State

Kwara State businessman, Mr. Suleiman Ndana, was abducted by armed bandits in a midnight raid on Tsaragi community, Edu Local Government Area, on September 27, 2025. He’s the CEO of Sunnzy Petroleum Nig. Ltd and had recently completed a fuel station in Yana Kokonna area, Tsaragi.

Abduction occurred around 12:00 midnight in Tsaragi, Kwara State. Bandits are demanding 200 million ransom from the family for Mr. Ndana’s release. This has heightened insecurity fears in Edu LGA and broader Kwara State, with concerns over economic disruption in rural areas.

Recent attacks in nearby Lema community left one dead and another injured, contributing to growing rural insecurity concerns in Kwara.

Community concerns include calls for enhanced security measures and frustration over slow government response.

Safety considerations include avoiding routine movements and securing personal/financial info crucial amid rising banditry.

Authorities have no official comments yet on Mr. Ndana’s abduction or rescue efforts.

The situation underscores Nigeria’s challenging insecurity landscape, with families and communities anxiously seeking safe release of abducted loved ones.

Bandits Strike Tsaragi: Prominent Businessman Abducted in Deadly Midnight Raid
In a shocking and disturbing incident, armed bandits launched a midnight attack on Tsaragi community in Edu Local Government Area of Kwara State, Nigeria, abducting a well-respected businessman, Mr. Suleiman Ndana, around 12:00 midnight on Saturday, September 27, 2025.

Mr. Ndana, popularly known as Ndana manager, is the Chief Executive Officer of Sunnzy Petroleum Nig. Ltd and had recently completed construction of a new fuel station in Yana Kokonna area of Tsaragi. The attackers, operating under the cover of darkness, stormed the community and took Mr. Ndana away to an unknown destination, leaving residents gripped with fear and uncertainty.

The abduction has intensified concerns over insecurity in Edu Local Government and other parts of Kwara State, with community members urgently calling for enhanced security measures and swift intervention from authorities to ensure Mr. Ndana’s safe release. This incident adds to a growing wave of banditry and kidnappings affecting rural communities in Kwara, sparking fears among residents and disrupting local economic activities.¹ ² ³

Earlier reports indicated bandits also attacked two brothers working on their farmland in nearby Lema community, Edu Local Government Area, resulting in one fatality and severe injuries to the other victim. The spate of attacks has led to heightened apprehension among locals, with some government offices like INEC in Patigi and Edu LGAs shutting down due to security threats.

Authorities are yet to comment officially on the abduction or disclose any developments regarding efforts to rescue Mr. Ndana.