A former Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kwara State, Hon. Bashir Omolaja Bolarinwa (PhD), has expressed profound grief over the devastating attacks by bandits in Oke-Ode and other parts of Kwara State over the weekend.
Hon. Bolarinwa described the recurring insecurity in most parts of Kwara State, especially the South and North, as the collective responsibility of all Kwarans to proffer a lasting solution immediately, instead of apportioning blame.
“The devastating attack in Oke-Ode, which claimed the lives of a score of brave local security volunteers and community members, has once again cast a dark cloud over the safety of some communities in the state. Similar incidents that occurred in some communities in Kaiama, Edu and Patigi Local Government Areas are still fresh in mind.
“These tragic incidents are not just another headline; it is a painful reminder of the escalating insecurity that continues to threaten innocent lives across the state.” Said the former APC Chairman in Kwara State.
In his message, he mourned with the families — wives, children and loved ones — of the fallen heroes, and extended his sympathy to the Oke-Ode community, the people of Kwara State and the entire nation.
“These were patriotic citizens who stepped forward to defend their communities,” he said. “Their deaths are a national loss and a wound to our collective conscience.”
Hon. Bolarinwa strongly condemned the attack, describing it as a purely criminal act carried out by individuals with malicious intent.
He cautioned against any attempt to ethnicise or tribalise the incident, stressing that crime should never be linked to any tribe, religion or group.
Calling for immediate and decisive intervention, he urged the Kwara State Government to intensify efforts in addressing the recurring violence.
He emphasised the need for full collaboration among local communities, state authorities and federal security agencies to put an end to the persistent threats.
He further encouraged the affected communities in Kwara South/North and parts of the state not to lose faith in the capacity of the current administration to restore peace. “It has become evident,” he noted, “that criminal gangs have marked some areas in Kwara State as targets for their wicked operations. This must not be allowed to continue.”
Bolarinwa called on citizens and leaders at all levels to unite in protecting their communities. “All hands must be on deck,” he said. “We must work with security agencies, share timely intelligence and remain prayerful for the safety of our people.”
He appealed to residents to remain vigilant and to promptly share any useful information that could help security operatives prevent further tragedies.
