By Bavoriat Clara
In a bid to forestall a breakdown of law and order following violent protests by youths in Omu-Aran, Ifelodun and Isin Local Government Areas of Kwara State, the Commander 22 Armoured Brigade, Brigadier General Ezra Barkins, in company of the Kwara State Commissioner of Police, CP Adekimi Ojo, and the Director, Department of State Services (DSS), Kwara State Command, Mr. Michael Oganwu, on Saturday 13 September 2025, led a joint security operation to the affected communities.
In a statement issued by the Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 22 Armoured Brigade, Ilorin, Captain Stephen Nwankwo, the swift intervention followed a distress call from the Executive Governor of Kwara State, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, over rising cases of kidnapping and the violent demonstrations that ensued.
The protesting youths had barricaded sections of the Omu-Aran–Eleyin–Ajase road in Isin LGA, obstructing vehicular movement and creating tension in the area. Troops of 22 Armoured Brigade, in synergy with the Nigeria Police and DSS, immediately mobilized to the scene, dispersed the protesters, restored normalcy, and cleared the road for free movement of commuters.
Some identified ringleaders were apprehended and handed over to the Kwara State Police Command for further investigation.
Speaking after the operation, Brigadier General Barkins reiterated the Nigerian Army’s resolve to protect the lives and property of citizens, while cautioning against violent protests.
He enjoined youths to channel grievances through lawful and peaceful means and emphasized the importance of timely and credible information sharing between communities and security agencies to combat kidnapping and other criminal activities.
Thereafter, the Brigade Commander, alongside other security heads, held a meeting with the Chairman, Isin Local Government Area, Honourable Jolayemi Benjamin, traditional rulers, and community stakeholders.
The meeting highlighted the need for continuous collaboration between residents and security forces to maintain peace and stability.
Hon. Benjamin commended the swift response of the joint team and assured the full support of the LGA in ongoing security operations.
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