By Olatidoye Akeem
In the wake of escalating civil unrest and a disturbing mob attack on a federal facility in Lafiagi, Edu Local Government Area, the Commissioner of Police, Kwara State Command, CP Adekimi Ojo, on Monday paid a critical engagement visit to His Royal Majesty, Alhaji Muhammadu Kudu Kawu, the Emir of Lafiagi.
The visit followed a violent protest on Monday 30th June by aggrieved youths, who at about 0745hrs, staged an unlawful demonstration at the Emir’s Palace, carrying out an extensive damage on the palace building, disrupting public peace and setting up bonfires.
Same day, at about 1120hrs, the mob also stormed the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) office in Lafiagi, set ablaze three operational vehicles and three motorcycles, and forcibly released four suspects from custody.
The Commissioner of Police and the Brigade Commander 22 Armored Brigade of the Nigeria Army, Brigadier General E.B. Barkins accompanied by senior officers and tactical commanders of the command, visited the town to assess the situation, engage local leadership, and reinforce the Command’s commitment to law and order. They were received at the Emir’s Palace by: Hon. Abdullahi Bello – Chairman, Edu LGA, Hon. Ndanusa Usman Shehu – Commissioner for Youth Development, Mall. Bello T. Abubakar – Executive Chairman, Teaching Service Commission.
Speaking on behalf of the Emir, Alh. Abdulraheem Alfa Mohammed, Chief of Staff to HRM, thanked the CP for his timely visit and expressed the Emirate’s support for lawful resolution of grievances.
Present at the palace is Alh Aliyu Muyideen the SSA on Security to the Executive Governor of Kwara State, H.E Mall Abdulrahman Abdulrasaq, CON.
The Kingmakers of Lafiagi Emirate, the Commander Vigilante Group of Nigeria (VGN) Lafiagi, Mohammed Yatsubologi, The Wali of Lafiagi, Justice Adam Idrisu (Rtd), Engr. Umaru Shaba, Wakili Lafiagi.
In his address, CP Adekimi Ojo strongly condemned the attacks and acts of vandalism, noting: “While we acknowledge recent security incidents, today’s violent protest and the attack on the NDLEA office represent a dangerous trend that must be swiftly addressed. No grievance justifies burning public assets or obstructing justice. We are deploying all tactical and intelligence resources to restore normalcy and apprehend all those involved.
He further urged the Emirate Council and local government to intensify efforts in youth engagement, strengthen community policing structures, and promote dialogue over violence.
The CP also appreciated the support of the Executive Governor of Kwara State, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq (CON) for providing critical logistics vehicles and motorcycles—to enhance field operations in rural and vulnerable communities.
The Kwara State Police Command assures residents of Lafiagi and the entire state that it remains fully committed to protecting lives and property. Citizens are advised to avoid any form of mob action, remain law-abiding, and support security efforts.
